Daily newspapers and periodicals are an essential part of the media landscape in Tehrān, the capital city of Iran. These publications must adhere to the regulations set forth in the press law of 1979, which governs the licensing and operation of media outlets in the country. One key restriction is the prohibition of any anti-Muslim sentiment in publications, reflecting Iran’s status as an Islamic Republic. The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) is a major news agency in Iran, operating under the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance. It plays a crucial role in disseminating news and information to the public, both domestically and internationally. Foreign correspondents are allowed to enter Iran on special occasions, providing an opportunity for international media to cover events in the country. Despite constitutional guarantees of press freedom, censorship remains a significant issue in Iran. Conservative elements within the government often exert control over broadcast media and the Internet, limiting the flow of information and ideas. However, the print media, including newspapers, magazines, and journals, have historically played a vital role in promoting political reform in Iran. In the late 1990s, during a period of increased political activism, print media outlets became platforms for advocating for change and challenging the status quo. This trend continued into the 2000s, with reformist and opposition groups utilizing the Internet to amplify their messages and reach a broader audience. At the same time, government authorities ramped up efforts to suppress online dissent, leading to a cat-and-mouse game between censors and activists. Among the most widely circulated newspapers in Iran are Eṭṭelāʿāt and Kayhān, which have established reputations for providing news and analysis on a wide range of topics. As technology continues to evolve and shape the media landscape, the role of newspapers and other print media in Iran remains a critical component of the country’s information ecosystem. 

The government of Iran plays a significant role in the media landscape of the country, operating radio and television broadcasting stations that reach the entire nation. These stations not only provide domestic coverage but also have the capability to broadcast internationally, reaching a global audience with their programming. In 1995, the possession of satellite reception equipment was made illegal in Iran. However, the enforcement of this ban has been inconsistent, leading many Iranians to continue to access television broadcasts from abroad, including Persian-language programs. This unauthorized access to foreign broadcasts has created a unique media environment in Iran, where viewers have the opportunity to engage with a variety of perspectives and ideas from around the world. In addition to Persian-language programs, the government’s broadcasting stations also air content in foreign languages as well as in local languages and dialects. This diverse range of programming reflects the cultural richness of Iran and ensures that all citizens, regardless of their language or background, have access to information and entertainment. Despite the increase in literacy rates since the revolution, audiovisual media remains a powerful tool for disseminating information in Iran, especially in rural areas where access to print materials may be limited. The visual and auditory nature of radio and television allows for the easy transmission of messages and ideas, making it an effective medium for engaging and educating audiences across the country. Overall, the government’s control over broadcasting in Iran has influenced the media landscape in complex ways, shaping the information that is available to the public while also leaving room for alternative sources of content to reach audiences through unofficial channels. This dynamic relationship between official and unofficial media sources highlights the diverse and evolving nature of media consumption in Iran.