Iran has expanded its restrictions on the distribution of news content from the country, specifically directing international media outlets to prohibit the use of their content by Israeli media. A recent directive from the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, sent to various international news organizations including The Associated Press, requires that all submitted content contain mandatory language stating it cannot be utilized by Israeli media or Farsi-language television stations based outside Iran. This directive follows a series of military conflicts involving the U.S. and Israel, which have heightened tensions in the region. Iran has long imposed limitations on international media, notably preventing sharing of material with outlets like BBC Persian and VOA Persian, threatening closure for non-compliance. Despite these restrictions, many Farsi-language media outlets abroad continue to access Iranian state media content through various channels. Freedom House has classified Iran as lacking a free and independent media landscape, with all television channels under the control of hard-liners, and journalists facing harassment and arrest.