Iran parliament passes law criminalizing contact with hostile media

Iran's parliament has approved a new law that criminalizes interactions with media outlets considered hostile to the state, specifically naming American and Israeli media. The bill, which still requires approval from the Guardian Council, mandates prison sentences ranging from six months to two years for individuals who give interviews or participate in discussions with these outlets.

The legislation also targets contacts with foreign organizations and embassies, requiring prior notification and written consent from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Violations will result in fines. Furthermore, the law aims to increase penalties for economic offenses committed under foreign influence or supervision and restricts scientific cooperation with foreign institutions not on an approved list.

Penalties are particularly severe for proposals deemed to be made under the direction of foreign intelligence services, which could harm Iran's security or independence. Revolutionary courts could impose sentences of up to 30 years in such cases. This move follows a previous law enacted in 2025 that already imposed stricter penalties for alleged cooperation with hostile states. The report notes that Iranian photojournalist Jalda Moaiery was previously sentenced to 15 years under such legislation for giving interviews to hostile media and providing photos to U.S.- and Israel-linked organizations.