Key Takeaways
- Iran's parliament passed a bill by 174 votes to six to criminalise interviews with foreign media deemed hostile.
- Penalties for violators include up to two years in prison, heavy fines, and flogging.
- The legislation still requires final review and approval by the Guardian Council before becoming law.
According to Euronews, the Iranian parliament voted 174 to six to pass a contentious bill that criminalises interviews with foreign media outlets deemed hostile by the Intelligence Ministry. The legislation, which moved forward despite opposition from the cabinet, introduces strict penalties of up to two years in prison, substantial fines, and flogging for Iranian citizens who communicate with designated organisations. The measure has not yet formally become law, as it still requires review and approval by Iran's powerful Guardian Council before it can be enacted. This legislative move mirrors broader authoritarian trends in non-EU neighbourhood policy and heightens concerns among European diplomats regarding freedom of expression and the suppression of independent information. The European Union has long maintained a strict human rights dialogue with Tehran and closely monitors the curtailment of civil liberties, viewing independent journalism and access to external information as fundamental pillars of a free society that directly impact diaspora communities and cross-border relations. For citizens, journalists, and businesses operating in or engaging with the region, the potential enactment of this law severely restricts the flow of verified information and increases legal hazards for local sources. Policymakers across European capitals will be watching the Guardian Council's upcoming deliberations to gauge the internal political balance in Tehran and determine potential diplomatic responses regarding press freedom and international human rights standards.
Source: Euronews. Read the original report ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What penalties does the new Iranian media bill introduce?
The bill carries penalties of up to two years in prison, financial fines, and flogging for Iranians who speak to outlets designated as hostile by the Intelligence Ministry.
Has the bill officially become law in Iran?
Not yet. Although it passed in parliament despite cabinet opposition, it still faces a mandatory review by the Guardian Council.