Tehran – A bid to scrap a pending bill barring dual nationals from holding key government positions in Iran was decisively rejected by the parliament on Saturday. 

207 lawmakers voted against a proposal to discard the legislation, which was passed by parliament in 2022 and currently awaits approval from the Guardian Council. 

The “Draft Law on Prohibition of Election or Appointment of Officials and Managers with Dual Nationality” prohibits individuals with dual citizenship, or those with close family members possessing significant foreign assets or ties, from holding various managerial positions within the government and public sector. The criteria are broad, including foreign residency permits, property ownership, substantial financial holdings (€100,000 or more), membership in foreign companies, and foreign currency exchange licenses.

Lawmakers who believe Iran should proceed with the adoption of the bill say it is an essential measure to enhance national security and prevent potential conflicts of interest.