Iranian parliament criminalizes interviews with 'hostile' foreign media

Iran's parliament has recently approved a bill that criminalizes interviews or communication with media outlets deemed hostile, particularly those linked to the United States or Israel. The legislation prohibits any form of interaction with such outlets, which could result in prison sentences ranging from six months to two years for those found guilty.

The bill's validity hinges on approval by the Guardian Council before it can be enacted into law. Interviews with other foreign media outlets will necessitate prior notification to the Ministry of Intelligence. Unauthorized contact with foreign embassies, international organization offices, or non-Iranian institutions may lead to fines and the loss of specific social rights.

Furthermore, the bill intensifies penalties for economic crimes directed or supervised by foreigners, bans providing information to foreigners without Ministry of Intelligence approval, and restricts scientific cooperation with non-approved foreign institutions. Submitting political or legislative proposals under the influence of foreign intelligence agencies, if deemed detrimental to Iran's security or independence, could lead to up to 30 years in prison. Revolutionary courts will handle cases involving these provisions.