Iran Parliament approves bill to counter foreign intelligence influence

The Iranian Parliament (Majlis) has approved the general principles of a bill titled ‘Countering the Influence of Intelligence Services and Foreign Governments or Entities in the Country.’ The legislation aims to combat perceived foreign espionage and influence through a series of 19 articles and several notes.

The bill introduces significant criminal penalties and restrictions for citizens, civil society organizations, universities, and associations. Regulated activities include conducting interviews with foreign media, communicating with academic centers, accepting scholarships, interacting with embassies, and participating in training courses. Under the proposed framework, any action deemed to constitute ‘influence’ by intelligence agencies—regardless of the individual's intent—can be treated as a crime.

The Ministry of Intelligence and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Intelligence Organization are designated as the primary authorities for identifying these offenses and providing evidence to the judiciary. The legislation also seeks to increase oversight on cultural production, including films, documentaries, theater, music, and books, to ensure they are not directed by foreign services.