On December 17, 2024, a significant congressional briefing titled “Iran Policy: Combating the Regime’s Warmongering and Terrorism, Advancing a Democratic, Non-Nuclear Republic” was hosted at the U.S. House of Representatives. This event gathered bipartisan leaders, experts, and activists, all advocating for a free and democratic Iran.
Keynote remarks were delivered by Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), with additional speeches from several members of Congress, including Reps. Tom McClintock, Brad Sherman, Nancy Mace, Judy Chu, Rich McCormick, Glenn Grothman, Pete Sessions, Ronny Jackson, and Erica Lee Carter. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren also showed support through a written message read by Dr. Ramesh Sepehrrad.
In her online address to the U.S. Congress conference, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi emphasized that the only viable solution to prevent the Iranian regime from acquiring nuclear weapons is its overthrow by the people and the organized Resistance. She highlighted the regime’s increasing reliance on nuclear armament as a means of survival following its regional failures, particularly the collapse of its proxy-led strategy in the Middle East.
“The fall of Assad’s dictatorship,” Mrs. Rajavi noted, “marks a critical blow to Khamenei’s regime and the IRGC, exposing their extreme weakness.” She described the regime’s proxy tactics in the region as a failure, demonstrating that uprisings and popular discontent have shaken its foundations. Rajavi underscored the urgent need for the international community to align itself with the Iranian people, who reject all forms of dictatorship, including the Shah and the theocratic regime.
Mrs. Rajavi commended bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress through House Resolution 1148, which recognizes the Iranian people’s right to resist the IRGC and other suppressive forces. She also urged immediate activation of the UN Security Council’s Snapback Mechanism under Resolution 2231 to reinstate sanctions and curb the regime’s nuclear ambitions.
Reaffirming the NCRI’s commitment to a democratic Iran, Mrs. Rajavi outlined a vision for a provisional government post-regime overthrow, prioritizing free elections, gender equality, religious tolerance, and a non-nuclear Middle East. She concluded by calling for comprehensive sanctions and an end to the regime’s covert operations abroad.
Congressman Tom McClintock delivered a powerful address in support of the Iranian Resistance, emphasizing the growing momentum toward the regime’s collapse. He likened the regime to a “rotting porch” that appears intact but is hollow and ready to fall. “Everywhere the Iranian dictators look, they see growing resistance at home, opposition abroad, and decay from within,” Rep. McClintock observed, adding that the regime’s tyranny has exhausted the patience of its people and alienated its regional allies, including the collapsing regimes of Hezbollah, Hamas, and Syria.
He praised the NCRI and Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, noting that their mission is not to seize power but to restore it to the Iranian people. “As Madam Rajavi has said, the NCRI’s objective is not to seize power, but to restore it to its rightful owners, the people of Iran,” he stated. Rep. McClintock also recognized the diaspora and global allies working to bring justice to the Iranian regime, declaring, “Freedom for the Iranian people means justice for the Iranian dictators.”
Looking ahead, the Congressman voiced optimism that liberation is near, calling it a “season of hope and renewal” for Iran. He envisioned a future where Iranians celebrate freedom “in the streets of Tehran and in town squares across all of liberated Iran.” He closed by urging continued dedication to the NCRI’s vision, emphasizing that Iran will soon reclaim its legacy as a proud and free nation. “This moment is rapidly approaching,” Rep. McClintock concluded.
Congressman Brad Sherman expressed strong support for the Iranian Resistance and optimism about the proximity of regime change in Iran. Reflecting on nearly three decades of advocacy, he praised the NCRI and its leadership, particularly Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, for their unwavering commitment to freedom and women’s rights. “Never has it been so close,” Sherman stated, emphasizing that the regime’s layers of suppression and alliances are rapidly collapsing.
Rep. Sherman highlighted the regime’s inability to support its ally in Syria, noting that Iran failed to send even a single IRGC brigade to aid Assad. He connected this weakness to the growing resistance within Iran. “What few loyalists they have are busy in the streets of Shiraz and Tehran,” he remarked, illustrating the regime’s inability to control both domestic unrest and regional crises simultaneously.
He applauded NCRI’s pivotal 2002 revelation of Iran’s secret nuclear facility in Natanz, describing it as a critical contribution to global awareness. The Congressman also endorsed House Resolution 1148, which condemns the regime’s terrorism, internal suppression, and regional aggression. He emphasized the importance of U.S. support for Iranian resistance groups, calling for both public and discreet backing to bolster the cause of democracy.
Concluding on an optimistic note, Rep. Sherman declared, “We’ve never been this close.” He reaffirmed his belief that the sacrifices of Iranian martyrs, including those lost in the 1988 massacres, would pave the way for democracy and freedom in Iran.
Congresswoman Nancy Mace delivered a stirring speech condemning Iran’s clerical regime and expressing full support for the Iranian Resistance. She highlighted the critical role of Iranian women in the fight for freedom, describing them as “some of the smartest, strongest, and most beautiful women in the world.” Rep. Mace praised their leadership within the Resistance, both inside Iran and abroad, and confidently declared, “Because of them, Iran will fall.”
The Congresswoman emphasized her rejection of all forms of dictatorship in Iran, including both the Shah and the current regime. She reaffirmed her commitment to supporting a democratic and free Iran, where liberty prevails for all its people. “I support all Iranians who want freedom and a democratic Iran,” she stated, standing firmly against the regime’s oppression.
Looking ahead, she expressed hope for the upcoming U.S. administration’s role in supporting the Iranian people’s aspirations and putting an end to Iran’s proxy wars in the region, including those involving Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. “We are done. America is done with Iran,” she declared emphatically.
Closing her remarks, Rep. Mace delivered a powerful call to action, urging solidarity and relentless effort: “Let’s fight like hell for freedom, fight like hell for liberty, and fight like hell for the people of Iran.”
Congresswoman Judy Chu reaffirmed her steadfast support for the Iranian people and their fight for democracy and human rights. Reflecting on the ongoing struggle, she highlighted the bravery of millions of Iranians who protested the regime’s brutality following the murder of Mahsa Amini. “They endured brutal, violent crackdowns but showed the world that they were willing to risk everything for their freedom,” she remarked, praising their resilience and courage.
Rep. Chu emphasized the weakening grip of the Iranian regime, citing the defeats of its regional proxies and allies in the conflicts they instigated. She stressed that this moment demands unwavering international support for the Iranian people in their quest for liberty. “It’s more important than ever that we stand with the Iranian people and support them in their struggle for freedom,” she asserted.
The Congresswoman expressed pride in her role as a cosponsor of House Resolution 100, a bipartisan measure condemning Iran’s state-sponsored terrorism and supporting protesters advocating for democracy. With 243 bipartisan cosponsors, the resolution demonstrates significant congressional solidarity with the Iranian people. She vowed to strengthen this support in the upcoming Congress, sending an even louder message that the Iranian people are not alone.
Congressman Glenn Grothman highlighted the stark contrast between the thriving Iranian diaspora in America and the suppressed potential of those still living under the Iranian regime. He praised Iranian Americans for their exceptional success in education, employment, and societal contributions, emphasizing that their achievements demonstrate the immense potential of Iranians if freed from their current government’s oppression.
Rep. Grothman pointed to the lack of freedom in Iran as the primary barrier to the prosperity of its people. “The Iranian people are capable of so many great things except they’re stuck with the Iranian government,” he stated. He urged Iranians to consider the freedoms enjoyed by their relatives abroad and question why similar opportunities are denied to them in Iran.
He described Iran as a country with the potential to be one of the wealthiest and most successful in its region, held back solely by its rogue regime. Rep. Grothman expressed hope for a future where Iran, freed from its current rulers, could thrive as it once did historically.
Congressman Pete Sessions delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of unity and persistence in the fight for freedom in Iran. He commended the Iranian Resistance and its supporters for spreading the “seeds of freedom” globally and for revealing the harsh realities of life under the Iranian regime. Rep. Sessions noted, “It is now time to tell the truth and expect our leaders to follow that same discussion.”
He expressed strong support for regime change in Iran, calling the current rulers “brutal thugs to their own people.” Rep. Sessions assured attendees that America’s foreign policy, under new leadership, would advocate for this cause not only in Washington but also on the global stage. “We will speak, and our new UN representative will speak, about the need for regime change,” he affirmed.
The Congressman acknowledged the enduring efforts of the Iranian-American community, praising their decades of advocacy and engagement with Congress to promote freedom and democracy in Iran. “You have done the spade work necessary by meeting with members and telling your story,” he stated, recognizing their role in shaping the conversation about Iran’s future.
Congressman Rich McCormick delivered a passionate speech advocating for decisive action against Iran’s oppressive regime. He emphasized the universal nature of inalienable rights, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, which he asserted belong to all people, not just Americans. Rep. McCormick called out the Iranian regime for its oppression and global exportation of terrorism, stating, “We know that the regime in Iran is wrong, and we know that it is oppressive. It is evil and is supplying weapons to our enemies around the world.”
He criticized the international community for its passive stance, urging the United States to lead from the front. “We shouldn’t be waiting for Iran to become a nuclear power before we do something. Rep. McCormick argued that the Iranian regime understands only power, asserting, “This regime needs to be overthrown by all means necessary.”
“If we’re not leaders in the world, who is?” he asked, stressing the broader impact of Tehran’s actions on global security and future generations. He concluded by commending the Iranian-American community’s activism and expressing his unwavering support for their cause. “Thank you for being part of this. I am with you now and with you always,” he affirmed.
Rep. Rich McCormick Speaks At OIAC’s Congressional Briefing – Supporting Regime Change In Iran
Congressman Ronny Jackson emphasized the bipartisan nature of the effort for a free Iran, stating, “This is a bipartisan effort to make sure that we free the people of Iran.” Jackson, who serves on the Armed Services, Foreign Affairs, and Intelligence Committees, highlighted Iran’s frequent role in discussions about global security, citing the regime’s exportation of terror through proxies like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis as a critical issue requiring accountability.
Rep. Jackson expressed confidence in impending change, stating that the Iranian regime would soon face consequences under renewed U.S. leadership. He assured attendees that sanctions would be strictly enforced and terrorism exported by the regime would be halted. “We need an Iran that’s a partner in Middle East peace,” he declared, underscoring the urgency of holding the regime accountable for its actions.
Praising the strength and resilience of the Iranian people, Rep. Jackson reaffirmed his commitment to supporting their fight for freedom. “I promise you, I will continue to work as hard as I possibly can,” he stated, offering his full availability to assist in advancing their cause. He closed with a pledge of unwavering solidarity, declaring, “I am all in in the fight for your cause.”
Congresswoman Erica Lee Carter, the daughter of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, delivered a heartfelt speech in solidarity with the Iranian Resistance, expressing her unwavering support for their fight for freedom, justice, and democracy. She praised the dedication and resilience of the Iranian-American community, emphasizing their critical role in amplifying the voices of those oppressed by the Iranian regime. “Your unwavering dedication to freedom, justice, and democracy is not only inspiring, but it is essential to achieving a better future for Iran,” she declared.
Rep. Carter honored her mother’s legacy as a co-founder and co-chair of the Iranian Women’s Congressional Caucus, recognizing her efforts to uplift the voices of women leading the fight for democracy. She noted her mother’s collaboration with Vice President Kamala Harris and President Biden in standing against human rights violations in Iran. “She admired your courage and fought to ensure that your voices were heard throughout Capitol Hill and beyond,” Carter said, reaffirming her family’s commitment to the cause.
Looking to the future, Rep. Carter expressed hope for celebrating a free Iran in the coming year. She concluded with a powerful call to action, urging persistence in the fight against the regime. “We will end the despotic Iranian regime forever,” she declared, committing to continue her support until liberty and justice prevail for the people of Iran.
Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren reaffirmed her support for the Iranian Resistance and the pursuit of a free and democratic Iran through a written message shared at the event. She emphasized the importance of persistent advocacy in achieving a democratic, secular, free, and non-nuclear Iran. “Together, we will one day see an Iran that is democratic, secular, free, and non-nuclear,” she stated, highlighting her confidence in the collective efforts of the Iranian-American community and their allies.
The announcement that Lofgren has agreed to serve as the Democratic co-chair of the Iranian Women’s Congressional Caucus was also made during the event. This step underscores her commitment to advancing women’s leadership in the fight for democracy and human rights in Iran. Lofgren’s support ensures continuity in the bipartisan effort to amplify the voices of Iranian women and promote a just future for Iran.
Dr. Ramesh Sepehrrad delivered an insightful address emphasizing the pivotal role of the Iranian Resistance, led by the NCRI, in achieving regime change in Iran. She highlighted the significance of recent geopolitical shifts, particularly the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, describing it as a significant blow to Tehran’s regional influence and a window of opportunity for democracy in both Iran and Syria.
Dr. Sepehrrad outlined strategic actions for the U.S. and the international community to support Iran’s democratic movement. These include building a global coalition to isolate Tehran diplomatically, enhancing sanctions targeting the IRGC, enforcing the snapback mechanism under the JCPOA, and adopting a firm no-appeasement policy. She underscored the importance of promoting human rights and supporting the NCRI as a credible and organized alternative capable of leading Iran through a democratic transition.
She praised Mrs. Maryam Rajavi’s leadership and her Ten-Point Plan, which has garnered global endorsements and offers a clear path to a secular, non-nuclear Iran that embraces democracy, gender equality, and religious tolerance. Highlighting the role of women and youth in the Resistance, Dr. Sepehrrad celebrated their bravery in confronting the IRGC and Basij forces. She concluded with a rallying call, urging the U.S. to align its policies with the aspirations of the Iranian people and recognize the NCRI’s leadership as the key to dismantling the regime and ushering in a new era of freedom and justice for Iran.
It’s so important for the international community to understand the mission of the resistance.
The people of Iran want democracy! pic.twitter.com/oO0aQmPbvZ
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 17, 2024
Dr. Majid Sadeghpour, political director for the Organization of Iranian-American Communities (OIAC), highlighted the critical need for international support to achieve democratic regime change in Iran. He commended bipartisan members of Congress for their unwavering backing of the Iranian people’s aspirations, emphasizing the global importance of empowering the voices calling for freedom and justice. “The people of Iran have been asking and fighting for a democratic republic, fighting for secularism for almost a century,” he declared, referencing key historical moments like 1906, 1953, and 1979.
Dr. Sadeghpour underscored the regime’s instability, pointing to its alarming execution rate as a sign of its fragility rather than strength. “This regime is weak. It is rotten from within. It is reeling from a population that is yearning and working actively to overthrow it,” he stated. He praised the organized efforts of the Resistance Units and the NCRI but emphasized the urgent need for political and moral support from the international community.
He called on global powers to hold Iran’s regime accountable, urging measures like its removal from the UN and prosecution of its leaders in the International Criminal Court. Dr. Sadeghpour highlighted Mrs. Maryam Rajavi’s six-point plan as a roadmap for action and stressed that the Resistance has the organizational strength to lead Iran toward democracy but requires external backing to succeed. “It is time for the free world to empower those risking everything to free Iran from medieval dictatorship,” he concluded.
The Iranian regime is the most dangerous terrorist group on the planet.
They execute their own citizens in cold blood again and again. @MRSadeghpour pic.twitter.com/znyOoRvROX
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 17, 2024
Niki Mohammadi, a law student and member of the Organization of Iranian-American Communities (OIAC) student chapter, emphasized the transformative implications of the fall of Syria’s Assad regime on Iran’s future. Drawing from Maryam Rajavi’s earlier remarks, Mohammadi outlined three key outcomes of this development: the collapse of Syria’s dictatorship exposes the extreme weakness of the Iranian regime and the IRGC; Khamenei’s strategy of proxy groups in the Middle East has failed; and the diminishing regional support for Tehran paves the way for uprisings to overthrow the regime.
She further noted the regime’s long-standing tactics in Western countries, which include fabricating an illusion of strength and denying the existence of a democratic alternative. However, Mohammadi argued, “The facts on the ground are very telling,” as the regime faces mounting internal and regional crises. Her remarks highlighted the growing momentum of the Iranian Resistance and the potential for meaningful change as the regime’s vulnerabilities become increasingly evident.
Parsa Arya, a recent graduate of Texas A&M and member of the Iranian-American community, emphasized the toll of the Iranian regime’s actions on both the Iranian people and their allies. He described the regime’s efforts to oppress its citizens, export terror, and manipulate narratives, stating, “We’ve all been attacked by the regime in some form or another. We’ve lost loved ones to the regime or its proxies.”
Arya highlighted the significance of the fall of Assad’s regime, calling it a pivotal moment that signals the beginning of the end of Tehran’s rule. He stressed the importance of seizing this opportunity to prevent the regime from regaining strength. “This is a sensitive time for the regime as it is for all of us, which is why we cannot afford to give them a sliver of hope to continue their tyranny and terrorism,” he urged.
He expressed confidence in the leadership of the NCRI and Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, praising their decades of steadfast dedication to democracy and freedom. “They’ve been tried and tested for decades and have continued to selflessly fight for democracy and freedom, not just in Iran, but for all of us,” Arya concluded, rallying support for the Resistance at this critical juncture.
In a powerful address, Anna Sami reflected on the significance of international solidarity and strategic planning for the future of Iran. She emphasized the importance of supporting the NCRI and reiterated Mrs. Rajavi’s commitment to a clear, democratic process for transferring power after the regime’s overthrow. According to the NCRI’s outlined platform, this process involves the establishment of a six-month provisional government tasked with organizing elections for a constituent assembly. This body will oversee the transition of power to representatives of the Iranian people, ensuring a peaceful path to drafting and approving a new constitution for the republic.
Our mission is clear and consistent:
Regime change means restoring power back to the people! pic.twitter.com/YjWlQouzN3
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 17, 2024
The speech underscored practical measures, including comprehensive sanctions to block the regime’s oil revenue and prevent its nuclear ambitions, as well as actions to dismantle covert operations linked to the IRGC and the Ministry of Intelligence. Sami highlighted the role of millions of Iranian expatriates in contributing their expertise and resources to rebuilding the nation.
Calling on the international community to recognize the legitimacy of the Iranian Resistance, Sami pointed to the pivotal impact of recent regional developments, such as the fall of Assad in Syria, on weakening the Iranian regime. Concluding her remarks, she reaffirmed the resolve of the Iranian resistance and its supporters to achieve freedom and sovereignty for Iran.
