Iran Parliament Advances Controversial Bill to Criminalize Media Interviews with US and Israel

Iran's parliament has advanced a new legislative measure in principle that would ban interviews and any forms of communication with US and Israeli-owned and financed news organizations, according to reports from Iranian media.

The legislation, known as the Countering the Infiltration of Intelligence Services and Foreign Governments or Institutions bill, secured 183 votes in favour, as detailed by the Iranian Shargh newspaper.

Osman Salari, a member of parliament's judicial and legal representative, stated that specific provisions of the bill still need to be debated before officially becoming law.

Under the proposed measures, individuals who violate the ban on interviews and contact with designated foreign agencies could face prison sentences ranging from six months to two years.

The scope of the bill extends beyond US and Israeli outlets to encompass other foreign media organizations, for which individuals must secure written permission to participate in interviews.

This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts by Iran to restrict foreign influence across multiple sectors, alongside frequent executions of individuals accused of colluding with the enemy, typically through intelligence sharing.

Previously, a law enacted after the 12-day war with Israel introduced stricter punishments for cooperating with hostile states.

Meanwhile, state-run Press TV reported that Iran's army chief, Amir Hatami, announced a crowdfunded financial reward on Sunday for anyone who kills or captures a US soldier.

Maj Gen Hatami stated that the reward amount, equivalent to $30,000, would be raised by Iranian supporters of the military, with female participants eligible to receive twice that amount.

Press TV also noted that the military will purchase the weapon utilized in any such operation at twice its market value to be permanently exhibited in a dedicated museum.