The Iranian president has conditionally agreed to withdraw the controversial fake news bill. The bill, titled 'Countering the Spread of False News Content on Social Media,' has faced widespread criticism from various sectors. Shargh newspaper cited an informed source who stated that President Masoud Pezeshkian would agree to withdraw the bill, provided there is consensus on its removal from the parliamentary agenda.
Government Plans Meeting to Address Concerns
A meeting is expected to be held with representatives from the Justice Ministry, legal experts, academics, media professionals, and political activists. The discussion will center on differing perspectives regarding the bill. The government has announced that the results of this meeting will serve as the basis for its decision on whether to withdraw the legislation.
Background on the Bill
The fake news bill was initially proposed by the Ministry of Justice and the judiciary. It received approval during a cabinet meeting held on June 25, 2025, according to the Iranian calendar. Last week, the government presented the bill to parliament with double urgency for legal deliberation. The parliament is currently reviewing its provisions under this expedited process.