Iran Parliament Approves Bill Criminalizing Communication with "Hostile Media"

The Iranian Shura Council (Parliament) on Sunday approved a bill criminalizing all forms of communication with media outlets deemed "hostile" to the country. This includes media entities affiliated with the United States or Israel, or those receiving funding from either. The bill, which awaits review by the Guardian Council to become law, prohibits conducting interviews or participating in discussions with these media outlets. Violators will face prison sentences ranging from six months to two years. Conducting interviews with other foreign media outlets requires prior notification to the Ministry of Intelligence. Moreover, the bill imposes fines and deprivation of certain social rights on individuals who contact foreign embassies, offices of foreign organizations, or non-Iranian institutions without written notification and permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The bill also tightens penalties for economic crimes committed under foreign direction or supervision. It further prohibits providing information to foreigners without Ministry of Intelligence approval and restricts scientific cooperation with non-approved foreign institutions. The legislation also mandates punishment for political or legislative proposals made under the guidance of foreign intelligence agencies, if deemed detrimental to Iran's security or independence, with imprisonment of up to 30 years. Revolutionary Courts will be tasked with adjudicating these cases.