On December 12, 2023, on Capitol Hill, representatives from both major political parties in the United States House of Representatives united to express their support for the Iranian Resistance‘s ongoing efforts to establish a free, democratic, and non-nuclear republic in Iran.
Democratic and Republican lawmakers strongly condemned the clerical regime’s destabilizing actions in the Middle East. They criticized its backing of terrorist groups, nuclear ambitions, and human rights abuses within Iran. This meeting organized by Organization of Iranian American Communities (OIAC).
➡️ Bipartisan members of congress will participate in an important Briefing to offer key US policy option on Iran. Join us. When: 12/12/2023; 11:30am-1pm Where: Cannon HOB@StateDRL@StateDept_NEA@HouseForeign@HouseForeignGOP
LIVE NOW: https://t.co/rSdfd3BJzv
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 12, 2023
During her keynote address, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, the President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), asserted that the regime, led by Khamenei, initiated a Middle East war to suppress potential uprisings, resulting in numerous executions. She called for accountability for the regime’s crimes against humanity and warmongering.
Mrs. Rajavi highlighted the regime’s historical warmongering, referencing its opposition to peace efforts after the 1993 agreement. She emphasized the need for a firm policy against the Iranian regime and praised House Resolution 100, supported by 241 representatives from both parties, as an effective step. The resolution aimed to block the regime’s access to funds released in the hostage deal and prevent the sale of oil.
She urged the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate to lead in implementing a decisive policy, including encouraging the European Union and Canada to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization. Other proposed actions involved activating the snapback mechanism in UN Security Council Resolution 2231, recognizing religious fascism in Iran as a global threat to peace under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, and acknowledging the Iranian people’s struggle against the regime and the youth’s rebellion against the IRGC.
During his address at the conference, Representative Tom McClintock underscored the simultaneous escalation of Iranian regime-backed atrocities abroad and the intensified oppression against its own citizens. He pointed to the alarming rise in executions and the misuse of the judiciary as troubling trends, emphasizing the pressing need for transformative change. McClintock declared that the threat to regional safety and security, both within Iran and the broader region, will persist until the regime is ousted.
Referring to House Resolution 100 introduced in 2022, Rep. McClintock remarked, “Within just a few months of presenting this measure, a bipartisan majority of the entire U.S. House of Representatives not only endorsed it but also became co-sponsors. This strongly reflects the broad support that the Iranian resistance enjoys among the American people. Shortly thereafter, the Iranian people themselves rose up to reclaim their freedom from the oppressive regime in Tehran.”
Rep. McClintock outlined a dual-pronged U.S. policy approach. Firstly, he advocated for exerting maximum pressure on Tehran, urging the enforcement of sanctions and discouraging actions that undermine the Iranian opposition. Secondly, he stressed the importance of the U.S. government offering unwavering political and moral support to the Iranian people.
Highlighting enduring bipartisan backing for the Iranian opposition, especially the MEK, McClintock called for global unity among freedom-loving individuals to rally behind the cause of the Iranian resistance. He urged the U.S. President and his administration to take a decisive stance against the Iranian regime, emphasizing that the world will not be secure from international terrorism until the regime is ousted.
As the principal Democratic advocate for House Resolution 100, Representative Brad Sherman underscored its endorsement of the Iranian people’s yearning for a democratic, secular, and non-nuclear republic. Reflecting on his 27 years in Congress and his role as the most senior Democrat on the Foreign Affairs Committee, he expressed a longstanding commitment to championing these issues alongside the audience.
“The Mullahs seek carnage outside Iran, so they can divert attention away from their own weakness inside Iran…” –@RepMcClintock #FreeIran2023 @HouseGOP pic.twitter.com/Q8I10k0gzC
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 12, 2023
Rep. Sherman strongly denounced the ongoing brutality of the Iranian regime and recounted instances of violence against dissenters within Iran. He emphasized the unwavering resilience of the Iranian people in their pursuit of freedom and human dignity, despite facing violence from the regime.
Recalling his vote for the No Funds for Iranian Terrorism Act, Mr. Sherman condemned the regime’s practice of seizing American hostages for financial gain and asserted that the regime should not be appeased with ransom payments.
“I share your vision of a free Iran, a nation where people can freely express themselves without fear of terrorism, imprisonment, torture, rape, or execution. An Iran where women have the freedom to choose their attire, and citizens can participate in their government. An Iran where individuals like Mahsa Amini and countless others would be alive today. That’s why, for decades, we have collaborated to replace this oppressive regime. As the Iranian people bravely fight for freedom, it is crucial for the American people and the U.S. Congress to stand with them. We must pass Resolution 100,” concluded Rep. Sherman.
Congressman @BradSherman condemns the regime and reiterates his full support for freedom and democracy in Iran. #FreeIran2023 #IranRevoIution pic.twitter.com/7kNeRfLt30
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 12, 2023
During her address, Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren highlighted that the pursuit of freedom transcends political divides within the United States House of Representatives. Recognizing the existing partisan divisions in Congress, she emphasized that the cause of freedom in Iran serves as a unifying factor for both political parties.
Rep. Lofgren underscored the pivotal role of the Iranian people in effecting regime change from within, specifically drawing attention to the presence of political prisoners, particularly women, at the event. She commended their courage, vision, and dedication to advocating for the future and freedom of every Iranian.
Emphasizing the shared objective of witnessing a free, democratic, secular, and non-nuclear Iran, Rep. Lofgren affirmed that the voices of those present can contribute significantly to realizing that vision.
“The Iranian-American community is one of the most talented, forthright, vigorous, and admirable groups in the United States.” –@ZoeLofgren 👏#FreeIran #RegimeChangeInIran pic.twitter.com/8Qi94ILtxz
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 12, 2023
Congressman Ruben Gallego reiterated the unwavering support of the United States Congress for the Iranian people’s pursuit of a democratic, secular, and non-nuclear republic. During his speech, he highlighted the long-standing struggle of the Iranian people against the oppressive regime, condemning the suppression of dissidents, terror plots abroad, and human rights violations. Congressman Gallego also expressed gratitude for the bipartisan support in co-sponsoring the House resolution condemning human rights violations and supporting the Iranian people.
Gallego called for further action, detailing his efforts to address illicit Iranian oil sales to China and to hold Tehran accountable for non-compliance with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). He stressed the importance of maintaining pressure and continuing the fight for the Iranian people, expressing optimism that the light of freedom will prevail.
In a separate speech, Representative Mike Garcia issued a strong call to action against what he identified as the epicenter of evil: the Iranian regime. He expressed concern about the suppression of the Iranian people and labeled the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as the largest state-sponsored terrorist organization on the planet.
Rep. Garcia, serving on the Appropriations Committee on the Defense Subcommittee and the Intelligence Committee, emphasized the need for a united front against the Iranian regime. Drawing on his personal experience of flying combat missions in the Gulf, he highlighted Iran as the biggest destabilizing force in the region, advocating for measures such as maximum pressure, maintaining the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization, opposing a proposed $6 billion deal by the Biden administration, preventing the revival of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, ceasing oil purchases from Iran, supporting freedom fighters within Iran, encouraging legislative backing, and urging Albania to recognize and protect political refugees from Iran.
“…if you asked me to put a pin on the globe where the epicenter of evil is, it’s the Iranian regime” 👏 –@RepMikeGarcia #FreeIran2023 #IranRevolution pic.twitter.com/juOSg77pqz
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 12, 2023
Speaking at the conference, Congresswoman Young Kim stated, “As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and chairwoman of the Indo-Pacific Subcommittee, I am dedicated to holding President Raisi and his terrorist-supporting allies accountable for the regime’s backing of terrorist proxies across the Middle East and the egregious crimes against humanity committed against its own people.”
Rep. Kim introduced the Iran Counterterrorism Act of 2023, a legislative initiative designed to constrain the administration from waiving Iran’s sanctions unless the Biden administration can verify the cessation of the regime’s support for international terrorist groups.
The congresswoman proudly highlighted her endorsement of Chairman McCaul’s No Funds for Iranian Terrorism Act, which imposes sanctions on international financial institutions involved in transactions related to the $6 billion in unfrozen Iranian assets transferred from South Korea to Qatar.
“I am committed to holding President Raisi accountable!…” @YoungKimCA 👏#FreeIran2023 #IranRevoIution pic.twitter.com/O4Lex3rJOw
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 12, 2023
In a fervent speech, Congressman Randy Weber brought attention to the ongoing human rights abuses perpetrated by the Iranian regime, underscoring the imperative for international intervention. Addressing an event, Weber highlighted the regime’s relentless oppression both within its borders and through proxy groups in the Middle East.
Expressing deep concern about the recent spike in executions, Rep. Weber revealed that 120 people were executed in the past month alone, urging an immediate halt to such brutality.
Recalling his meeting with Mrs. Maryam Rajavi in Paris, he endorsed her Ten-Point Plan, advocating for principles such as gender equality, the separation of church and state, and the protection of minority rights.
The congressman called on the U.S. government to apply maximum pressure on the Iranian regime by cutting off aid and imposing additional sanctions. He urged accountability for the mullahs, emphasizing charges of crimes against humanity, genocide, terrorism, and hostage-taking.
Rep. Weber highlighted House Resolution 627, which condemns the regime for the 1988 massacre of political prisoners. He reiterated Congress’s commitment and pledged solidarity with the Iranian people, standing firm for the values of freedom, democracy, and human rights.
It’s disheartening to know that amidst our celebrations, the Iranian regime persists in oppressing its own people, and contributing to violence in the region.” – @TXRandy14 👏 #FreeIran2023 #Iran #IranRevoIution pic.twitter.com/PXRujXmItN
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 12, 2023
In his impassioned address, Representative Mario Diaz-Balart boldly declared that the struggle against evil, particularly concerning a nuclear Iran and the contentious nuclear deal, necessitates an unequivocal call for regime change.
With fervor, the representative urged against any hesitation or fear in advocating for regime change, drawing parallels to historical instances where such calls were imperative in the face of evident and malevolent circumstances. Rep. Diaz-Balart expressed gratitude to the Iranian-American community for their unwavering dedication to freedom and underscored the importance of maintaining resolve without succumbing to confusion or surrender.
“Look, the Iranian regime is one of the greatest sources of EVIL on this planet!” – @MarioDB 👏 #FreeIran2023 #IranRevoIution pic.twitter.com/MdefpPLEL2
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 12, 2023
Recognizing the sacrifices made by heroes in Iran working towards freedom, Rep. Diaz-Balart conveyed confidence that, through the collective efforts of those advocating for change, Iran would eventually liberate itself from the shackles of oppressive control. He envisioned a future where Iran not only regains its freedom but also divests itself of nuclear capabilities, enabling it to reintegrate into the civilized world.
I was proud to speak at the @OrgIAC congressional briefing on Iranian policy, where we discussed Tehran’s egregious human rights abuses and its support for international terrorism.
It is absurd that the terrorist state of Iran, which ruthlessly suppresses its own people, will… pic.twitter.com/lU3Q7aTQ1r
— Mario Díaz-Balart (@MarioDB) December 12, 2023
During the conference, and as he reflected on his 25-year involvement in this cause, Congressman Pete Sessions lauded the attendees for their influential efforts in establishing robust connections with their congressional representatives.
The congressman emphasized the bipartisan character of the issue, acknowledging a united front among members of Congress in addressing the challenges posed by the Iranian regime. He recognized the potential difficulties arising from conflicts on multiple fronts and stressed the commitment to avoiding a three-front war.
Rep. Sessions concluded by expressing pride in the attendees, assuring them of America’s support, and pledging continued collaboration in the coming year to address the shared concerns regarding Iran.
“Your work, not only by yourself but inside Congress, has not only paid off, but is a reality today.” – @PeteSessions 👏 #FreeIran2023 #IranianRevolution pic.twitter.com/UQLecVuU6D
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 12, 2023
Expressing appreciation for the bipartisan support present, Representative Nicole Malliotakis proudly acknowledged being sanctioned by the Iranian regime as a badge of honor, symbolizing her unwavering commitment to standing with the Iranian-American community and their compatriots inside Iran. The representative underscored the gravity of Iran’s ongoing funding of terrorism and threats against the U.S., emphasizing the imperative need for accountability and comprehensive protection of the homeland.
Rep. Malliotakis asserted, “I believe that the maximum pressure campaign under the Trump administration was working. It was economically crippling. I think it was a mistake to reverse course on the progress that was made by the previous administration. And that is why my colleagues and I have introduced legislation to reinstate sanctions, cripple Iran’s ability to fund terrorism throughout the region, sanction the supreme leader, and compel the president to enforce sanctions on Iran’s oil sales. That is what we need to do if we are serious about being tough on this oppressor.”
“…We are taking these threats very seriously. The fact that Iran continues to fund terrorism is extremely troubling — and they’ve even made threats towards the United States!…” –@RepMalliotakis #FreeIran #IranRevoIution pic.twitter.com/jvlZPhXsvz
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 12, 2023
Malliotakis drew attention to the United Nations Human Rights Council, expressing dismay over Tehran’s chairmanship despite its egregious human rights violations. She urged not only Americans but democratic nations worldwide to unite against such appointments, emphasizing the need to hold the Council accountable.
The representative concluded by stressing the imperative to prevent the regime from obtaining nuclear weapons, opposing the re-entry into the Iran deal, and asserting Congress’s right to review and approve any such agreement.
As someone who has been sanctioned by Iran, I was proud to stop by & speak with Iranian-Americans calling for an end to the regime's oppression & support of terrorism. We MUST reinstate President Trump's Maximum Pressure campaign that brought Iran to its knees. pic.twitter.com/Nm1joRSbxZ
— Office of Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (@RepMalliotakis) December 12, 2023
Congressman Derrick Van Orden affirmed his unwavering commitment to the Iranian resistance movement, drawing on a personal connection to Kevin Hermening, the youngest hostage taken during the embassy seizure by the clerical dictatorship.
Hailing from Wisconsin, the congressman highlighted the gravity of the situation, recalling his extensive military experience as a United States Navy SEAL. Rep. Van Orden, who has faced terrorists sponsored by Iran, solemnly acknowledged the loss of many friends due to their actions.
In a resolute message to the Iranian resistance, Van Orden declared, “I will stand with you and your people until Iran is a free nation again.”
Representative Richard McCormick expressed steadfast support for the Iranian people in their struggle against an oppressive theocracy. He emphasized the shared goal of opposing a theocratic regime that has globally spread hate and discontent while suppressing its own citizens.
Addressing the plight of the Iranian people, McCormick condemned the violent minority in power, particularly highlighting the infringement of basic rights, such as freedom of speech and action. He underscored the irony of a theocracy claiming alignment with God while stifling the very idea of freedom that, according to McCormick, is bestowed by God.
The congressman expressed solidarity with the cause, pledging relentless efforts to oppose the oppressive government and denouncing the misuse of religious ideals to propagate violence, oppression, and division. He vowed to stand firm against such evils, assuring the Iranian people that they have friends in their fight for freedom and declaring a commitment to continue the struggle until freedom prevails for all.
“They use the same idea of God to spit violence and kill people all over the world…” –@RepMcCormick @RichforGA 👏#FreeIran #RegimeChange #IranianRevolution pic.twitter.com/5axmFan7kT
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) December 12, 2023
In his speech, Congressman Ronny Jackson positioned himself and his colleagues as staunch allies in the pursuit of a democratic and non-nuclear Iran. Serving on both the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Armed Services Committee, Congressman Jackson underscored that the prevailing issues worldwide, including ongoing conflicts involving terror groups in the Middle East, trace back to the current regime in Iran.
Highlighting the impact of sanctions during the former US administration, Jackson pointed out that the Biden administration has facilitated the regime in funding various terrorist proxies. Expressing concern about potential consequences, he emphasized the imperative to sever this financial support to prevent further destabilization in the region.
Recognizing the necessity for regime change to originate from within, Congressman Jackson stressed the importance of making it challenging for the current regime to endure. Despite his three years in Congress, he asserted himself as one of the most steadfast supporters of the cause and pledged to persist in his efforts, ensuring that the Iranian people can take pride in his unwavering support.
