Iran Bans Citizens from Contacting 'Hostile' Foreign Media
Iran's parliament approved a law banning citizens from communicating with foreign media deemed hostile, including those based in or funded by the US and Israel, with penalties ranging from six months to 30 years in prison.
Consensus
- Iran's parliament approved a law restricting communication with foreign media.
- The law targets media registered in or funded by the US and Israel.
- Citizens must notify authorities before contacting foreign media or institutions.
- Violations may result in prison sentences of up to two years, with harsher penalties for political or legislative activities under foreign influence.
- The law requires permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to contact foreign embassies and organizations.
- The law also restricts scientific and business cooperation with foreign entities.
- The law must be approved by the Council of Guardians to become effective.
Points of divergence
- The law includes a provision for up to 30 years in prison for preparing legislation or conducting political activities under influence of foreign intelligence services. — kommersant
- The law allows some exceptions for communication with foreign media, provided it is coordinated. — fontanka
- The law is an intensification of existing rules prohibiting cooperation with so-called 'hostile states'. — tg_radiosvoboda
- Specific provisions of the law are still under discussion and require further parliamentary approval. — kommersant
- The law was approved at a 'midway stage' and must be ratified by the Council of Guardians. — fontanka
Coverage (3 sources)
- Iranian parliament banned citizens from communicating with "hostile" media — Коммерсантъ
- Iran's Parliament approved a law that prohibits communication with foreign media — Фонтанка
- In Iran, jail will be threatened for interviews with 'hostile' media — Радио Свобода