TEHRAN, Iran: Iran’s parliament approved the Iran hostile media bill on Sunday, which would criminalise interviews and other communication with media linked to the United States or Israel.
Shargh newspaper reported that violations could bring prison terms of six months to two years. The Guardian Council must still review the bill before it can become law.
The proposal would also require people to notify the Intelligence Ministry before speaking with other foreign media. Unauthorised contact with foreign embassies or institutions could bring fines and restrictions on social rights.
The bill would restrict the transfer of information to foreigners without Intelligence Ministry approval. It would also limit scientific cooperation with institutions outside an approved list.
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Some provisions would impose tougher penalties for economic crimes carried out under foreign direction. Policy or legislative proposals linked to foreign intelligence services could bring prison terms of up to 30 years if authorities find harm to Iran’s security or independence.
Revolutionary Courts would hear cases under the proposed framework. The bill follows a 2025 law that increased penalties for alleged cooperation with hostile states.
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Iranian photojournalist Yalda Moaiery received a 15-year sentence this month under that earlier law. The allegations included interviews with media deemed hostile and providing photographs to US- and Israel-linked organisations.
