On 16 August, Iran\u2019s parliament approved the general framework of a new bill that would criminalise interaction with foreign media outlets considered \u2018hostile\u2019 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\u2019s right to information if enacted.<\/p>\n
The bill, which was approved<\/a> by 183 out of 290 lawmakers, concerns interactions with foreign media, whether considered \u2018hostile\u2019 or not, as well as other international interactions with organisations or individuals. More broadly, it aims to curb<\/a> \u2018foreign influence\u2019, including via restrictions in areas such as the economy and science.<\/p>\n The bill criminalises<\/a> interviews with foreign media deemed \u2018hostile\u2019, 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 \u2018hostile\u2019, it also proposes a requirement<\/a> for prior notification of interviews with other foreign media, while also criminalising<\/a> the act of sending photos, videos, audio or information to the latter.<\/p>\n Furthermore, the bill<\/a> proposes restrictions on providing information to non-Iranian individuals and organisations, foreign funding for NGOs and professional associations, and international contacts and training.\u00a0<\/p>\n If enacted, violations of these measures could result<\/a> 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.\u00a0<\/p>\n