Iranian parliament approves bill criminalising interviews with US and Israeli media

Iran's parliament has taken a significant step by passing a bill that criminalizes interviews and communications with US and Israeli-owned and financed news outlets. The Countering the Infiltration of Intelligence Services and Foreign Governments or Institutions bill received 183 votes in favor during its approval process. Osman Salari, a member of parliament's judicial and legal representative, stated that the specifics of the bill still need to be discussed before it becomes law.

Violators of this bill could face a prison sentence ranging from six months to two years. While the bill primarily targets US and Israeli media, it also extends to other foreign media that require written permission for interviewees. Iran has been actively working to prevent foreign influence, executing individuals accused of collaborating with adversaries.

In 2025, a law was enacted to impose stricter penalties for cooperating with hostile states following the 12-day war with Israel. On Sunday, Iran's army chief, Amir Hatami, announced a reward of $30,000 for anyone who "kills or captures" a US soldier, with women receiving twice that amount. The reward is intended to be crowdfunded by Iranians who support the military.

Maj Gen Hatami mentioned that the weapon used in the operation would be purchased at twice its market value and permanently displayed in a dedicated museum.