Iran’s parliament has approved a bill that would impose new limits on foreign investment in key sectors, according to Reuters. The move comes as Tehran faces renewed pressure over its nuclear program and continues to operate under broad U.S. sanctions that have strained the economy for years.

The legislation targets strategic industries, signaling that lawmakers are preparing for a more difficult investment environment even if nuclear talks change course. While officials framed the measure against the backdrop of external pressure, the practical effect is likely to further narrow economic options inside Iran, where ordinary people already face inflation, unemployment and persistent financial uncertainty.

Foreign capital has been hard to attract to Iran for years because of sanctions risk, regulatory unpredictability and political tensions. By adding new restrictions, parliament appears to be reinforcing a defensive economic posture at a time when the country’s leadership is still trying to navigate negotiations without easing domestic pressure.

The bill now moves through the next steps of Iran’s legislative process. Its final impact will depend on implementation, but the vote underscores how nuclear standoffs and sanctions continue to shape Iran’s economy far beyond the diplomatic arena.