Iran's parliament, the Majlis, is reportedly set to discuss a new bill that proposes to criminalize interviews and cooperation with media outlets from the United States and Israel. This legislative initiative, reported on May 31, 2024, seeks to impose severe penalties, including prison terms of up to 30 years, on individuals who violate the proposed law.

The proposed legislation aims to restrict contact between Iranian citizens and what it defines as "enemy media." Lawmakers supporting the bill assert that these media organizations act against Iran's national interests and promote "soft subversion," seeking to foster distrust between the populace and the government. The move follows existing unofficial restrictions and arrests related to contact with foreign media.

Key details of the proposed bill include:

  • Definition of 'Enemy Media': The bill broadly defines "enemy media" as outlets "acting against national interests" or promoting "soft subversion," specifically citing US and Israeli media as examples.
  • Penalties for Cooperation:
    • Second-degree punishment: Up to 30 years in prison for individuals found to be cooperating with or assisting "enemy media" organizations. This category is designated for those deemed to be providing significant support or aid.
    • Third-degree punishment: Up to 15 years in prison for individuals who conduct interviews with representatives of "enemy media."
    • Fifth-degree punishment: Up to 5 years in prison for engaging in "normal contact" with "enemy media."
  • Scope: The proposed law extends beyond interviews to include any act of providing information to or collaborating with these specified foreign media outlets.

The introduction of this bill signals a significant escalation in Iran's efforts to control information flow and interaction with international media. Critics argue that such legislation could further restrict freedom of expression and access to information for Iranian citizens, potentially isolating the country further from global discourse. Human rights organizations and press freedom advocates are expected to monitor the progression of this bill closely, anticipating potential condemnation if it moves towards becoming law.

The initiative comes amid prolonged tensions between Iran and both the United States and Israel. In recent years, several Iranian activists, journalists, and dual nationals have faced arrest and prosecution on charges related to contact with foreign media outlets, underscoring the government's sensitivity to perceived external influence. This bill, if enacted, would formalize and substantially increase the legal repercussions for such interactions.

For the bill to become law, it must pass through various stages of parliamentary approval, including votes in the Majlis, and subsequently receive endorsement from the Guardian Council, a powerful body responsible for vetting legislation for compliance with Islamic law and the constitution. The timeline for these legislative steps remains subject to the parliamentary process.