Iran Parliament Advances Bill Criminalizing Contact With Foreign Media and Institutions

Tehran: Iran's hard-line-dominated parliament has approved the framework of a bill that criminalizes interactions with "hostile" foreign media and other institutions with ties abroad as authorities look to curb what they consider foreign infiltration of the Islamic republic. According to Radio Free Europe Radio Liberty, the measure, approved on August 16 by 183 lawmakers in the 290-seat parliament, prohibits interviews, participating in discussions, or other communication with media described as American, Israeli, or funded by the United States or Israel. The bill would also criminalize sending videos, photographs, audio recordings, or other data to non-Iranian media outlets or people engaged in media activities outside the country. The creation of an extensive new framework for prosecuting alleged foreign influence comes amid growing scrutiny of journalists and others accused of maintaining contact with organizations considered hostile by Tehran. Violations of the bill would carry a prison sentence rangin g from six months to two years. Finland-based political analyst Kambiz Ghafouri told RFE/RL's Radio Farda that the move could "turn Iran into North Korea." He pointed out that infiltration occurs within the power structure, suggesting authorities should focus on their security apparatus rather than targeting journalists. The sweeping scope of the legislation extends deep into cultural and academic life. Contact with foreign media would require prior notification of the Intelligence Ministry, effectively requiring Iranians to inform authorities before giving an interview. The Intelligence Ministry and the intelligence arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) are named as entities responsible for investigating alleged violations. Additional measures approved by parliament impose a lifetime ban on producing or directing films, documentaries, theater, music, or books that promote "anti-Islamic culture" or present a negative portrayal of the country. The bill also targets educational and research act ivities, mandating prison terms for organizers and attendees of courses deemed "incompatible with Iranian culture." Furthermore, any unauthorized academic collaboration with foreign universities or research institutes without government approval will carry prison sentences ranging from six months to two years. Ghafouri accused authorities of trying to isolate Iranians and suppress free expression through these measures. For the bill to become law, it must be approved by the constitutional watchdog, the Guardians Council. Iran already imposes sweeping restrictions on independent journalism and access to information and has been criticized for using fabricated charges to suppress dissent. Iran Human Rights reports at least 472 executions this year, with UN human rights chief Kurt Volker accusing authorities of using capital punishment to instill fear and suppress opposition. Reporters Without Borders ranks Iran 177th out of 180 in its 2026 World Press Freedom Index, citing ongoing harassment and censorship o f journalists.