Iran parliament criminalizes contact with hostile media outlets

TEHRAN, Aug. 16 (YPA) – Iran’s parliament on Sunday approved a bill criminalizing interviews or communication with media outlets classified by the authorities as hostile to Iran, including US and Israeli media or outlets funded by them.

The bill, which still requires approval by the Guardian Council, stipulates prison sentences of six months to two years for violators. It also requires individuals to notify the Intelligence Ministry before conducting interviews with other foreign media outlets.

The legislation would further restrict communication with foreign embassies and organizations without written authorization from the Foreign Ministry, while increasing penalties for certain forms of economic, scientific, and political cooperation with foreign entities.

In some cases, particularly political or legislative proposals directed by foreign intelligence agencies and deemed by authorities to threaten Iran’s security or independence, penalties could reach 30 years in prison.

Revolutionary Courts would handle cases covered by the law, as Tehran tightens restrictions on contact with foreign entities following a similar law passed in 2025 after the 12-day war with Israel.

Iranian photojournalist Yalda Moayeri was sentenced this month to 15 years in prison under the previous law over allegations including conducting interviews with media outlets considered hostile by the authorities.

AA