Iran enacts tougher espionage penalties, tightens civilian drone regulations

New laws strengthen security framework as government launches drone registration system following Israeli attacks

TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) — Iran has approved new legislation intensifying punishments for espionage while introducing stricter regulations on civilian drone use, moves that authorities say are aimed at bolstering national security in the aftermath of recent Israeli drone attacks.

The Guardian Council confirmed that both bills—one targeting espionage and another regulating non-military drones—were revised by Parliament to address constitutional and Sharia-related concerns before gaining final approval. 

Council spokesperson Hadi Tahan Nazif said the measures, passed during the 12-day Israeli-imposed war in June, will now be forwarded to the President for formal enforcement.

Under the espionage law, harsher penalties will be imposed on individuals found guilty of spying or collaborating with Israel and other hostile governments against Iran’s national interests. 

The drone law provides a legal framework for the licensing, monitoring, and safe operation of civilian drones, ensuring oversight of their use in agriculture, filmmaking, surveying, and other sectors.

Separately, Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization announced the launch of a new online registration platform requiring all drone owners to register their devices and display official ID numbers. Operating drones without registration will be deemed illegal and subject to judicial penalties.

The tighter rules come after Israel used small drones in coordinated strikes during June’s conflict, attacks that Iranian officials said targeted the homes of military commanders and nuclear scientists. 

Security authorities have since voiced concern about privately-owned drones flying near sensitive facilities.

While most drones in Iran are currently used for agricultural spraying or filming, officials expect commercial applications—including package delivery by online retailers—to grow significantly in the coming years, making regulation increasingly important.