Iran bans mobile phones in parliament over security concerns

Iran has banned the use of mobile phones within its parliamentary chambers and committee meetings, citing rising security concerns, state media reported on July 27.

The decision was supported by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who emphasized the need to maintain legislative focus and address security vulnerabilities, Caliber.Az reports, citing Iran International. 

“The matter of mobile phone use by lawmakers has been discussed by the parliamentary presidium. Regardless of security concerns, we are in the chamber to legislate, and mobile phone use is inappropriate,” Ghalibaf said during the July 27 open session.

He added, “Even if the security issues are resolved, the presidium still opposes the use of mobile phones inside the chamber. Our dear people should know that when MPs are present in the chamber or in committees, they cannot use mobile phones.”

The restriction comes amid heightened fears in Tehran about Israeli intelligence activities. Iranian officials and media have recently warned of advanced surveillance capabilities allegedly deployed by Israel. A report published by The Sunday Times on July 26 claimed that Israeli intelligence had deeply infiltrated Iran’s military and nuclear sectors through sophisticated operations conducted over the past year.

Earlier this month, Abdollah Shahbazi, a former senior intelligence official and director of a state-affiliated research institute, advised officials against carrying electronic devices. “It has now become clear that, in addition to drones and missiles, a highly active Mossad network is operating on the ground inside Iran,” Shahbazi wrote on social media.

While the ban has been presented as a security measure, it has sparked criticism among some members of parliament who say it restricts their ability to engage with constituents.

“Not having our phones with us has become a problem. People expect us to be available and responsive, and this ban makes that difficult. I ask the presidium to step in and resolve this issue,” said Hamidreza Goudarzi, a lawmaker from Aligoudarz, during Sunday’s session.

Responding to the criticism, Ghalibaf stated that the decision was made in consultation with security agencies.

“Our colleagues in the security apparatus have specific views about mobile phone use after entering the chamber. We are following up with the presidium to make decisions accordingly,” he said.

The move appears to be part of broader efforts by Iranian authorities to tighten control over sensitive communications. Despite resistance from some lawmakers, Ghalibaf assured that constituents would still be able to reach their representatives through their staff.

“Citizens should understand that their representatives cannot speak on mobile phones while in the chamber, but their office teams can respond on their behalf,” he said.

By Sabina Mammadli