Iranian parliament approves bill criminalising interviews with US and Israeli media

Iran's parliament has passed a bill that would make it illegal to interview or communicate with US and Israeli-owned media outlets. The Countering the Infiltration of Intelligence Services and Foreign Governments or Institutions bill received 183 votes in favour during the approval process, as reported by Iranian Shargh newspaper.

Osman Salari, a parliamentary representative, stated that the bill's provisions have yet to be debated before its implementation. Violators could face incarceration ranging from six months to two years. The law extends its reach to other foreign media, mandating written permission for interviews. Iran has been endeavoring to limit foreign influence through various means and has executed individuals accused of collaborating with adversaries, typically those providing intelligence.

A 2025 law enacted following Israel's 12-day conflict with Iran introduced harsher penalties for cooperation with hostile nations. Recently, Iran's army chief, Amir Hatami, announced a bounty of $30,000 for individuals who "kill or capture" a US soldier, with women eligible to receive twice the amount. The reward will be funded by Iranians supporting the military, and the weapon utilized in the operation will be permanently displayed in a dedicated museum, according to PressTV.