Iran’s hardline-dominated parliament approved general principles this week for legislation designed to counter what officials describe as foreign “infiltration” of the country. The measure focuses particularly on academia, media and cultural sectors, and is presented as complementary to espionage laws enacted following military conflict last year. The proposal came as a memorandum of understanding with Washington expired, occurring amid escalating tensions in the region.
The legislation exists in evolving forms, with a 19-article draft previously circulated and a 33-article version released more recently. Before becoming law, the bill requires final parliamentary approval and review by the Guardian Council, a process expected to take weeks or months. The proposal would establish a three-tiered country classification system, with the United States and Israel expected in the highest scrutiny category. A registration portal managed by the Ministry of Interior would require reporting of numerous foreign-linked activities including academic cooperation, data exchange, media work and artistic production.
The bill’s scope extends broadly across sectors. Educational institutions would need to incorporate material on “enemy infiltration” awareness into curricula. Media interactions with outlets deemed hostile by Iranian authorities would require registration and prior permission, with violations potentially resulting in prison sentences up to several years. Foreign-supported cultural works, particularly those questioning religious doctrine or depicting Iran negatively, could face fines, professional bans and production halts. Armed forces and intelligence activities would be exempt from registration requirements.
Opposition to the plan emerged from multiple quarters. The government of President Masoud Pezeshkian, through its legal affairs deputy, expressed explicit opposition, warning that the restrictions would hinder scientific research, limit academics’ international collaboration and accelerate emigration. Legal experts and reformist media outlets criticized the measure as restricting freedoms and communication rights. However, conservative outlets provided support, with state-controlled news agencies framing it as a necessary security measure. The controversy also highlighted broader security concerns following a significant incident last year affecting senior leadership.
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