Iran: New bill would criminalise interaction with 'hostile' foreign media

On 16 August, Iran's parliament approved the general framework of a new bill that would criminalise interaction with foreign media outlets considered 'hostile' and would impose severe restrictions on international contact. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) strongly condemns this bill, which would further isolate the Iranian people and erode the public's right to information if enacted.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian addresses members of parliament in Tehran in March 2025, during impeachment proceedings against the country's finance minister. Credit: Atta Kenare / AFP.

The bill, which was approved by 183 out of 290 lawmakers, concerns interactions with foreign media, whether considered 'hostile' or not, as well as other international interactions with organisations or individuals. More broadly, it aims to curb 'foreign influence', including via restrictions in areas such as the economy and science.

The bill criminalises interviews with foreign media deemed 'hostile', i.e. media based in or funded by the United States of America or Israel. Both countries have been engaged in a war with Iran since launching joint airstrikes on the country in February 2026. In addition to the media considered 'hostile', it also proposes a requirement for prior notification of interviews with other foreign media, while also criminalising the act of sending photos, videos, audio or information to the latter.

Furthermore, the bill proposes restrictions on providing information to non-Iranian individuals and organisations, foreign funding for NGOs and professional associations, and international contacts and training.

If enacted, violations of these measures could result in a prison sentence of between six months and two years. The proposed legislation also includes criminal penalties and professional bans for certain films, documentaries, books and other cultural materials.

Reuters reported that the debate on the bill is not final yet and that details could change. After further parliamentary debates, the final text will be submitted to the Guardian Council for review. If approved by the latter, after the president's signature, the aforementioned restrictions will become law and enter into force.

IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger said: "This bill purports to be a means of further restricting freedom of expression in Iran, while also severely violating the public's right to information by controlling the dissemination of news. While Iranian journalists continue to be imprisoned for doing their jobs, restricting interaction with the international media would further silence the Iranian people. We call on the authorities to drop the bill and stop intimidating journalists and their sources."