The Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans, PAAIA

Many of us are feeling angry, helpless, and heartbroken about what is unfolding in Iran. Some of us have loved ones there and are anxiously hoping for their safety. Others may not have close ties on the ground but still carry the deep pain of leaving Iran as you watch the situation descend further into violence and chaos. No matter where we may fall, the grief is real.

What does not vary is that we all share Iranian heritage and are devastated seeing bodies of civilians strewn into the streets and apartment buildings leveled across the country. We want de-escalation and an end to the loss of innocent lives.

Since June 13th, PAAIA has been working and doing outreach to the Executive and Legislative branches of government. Our message has been clear – diplomacy and de-escalation must prevail now. Senator Tim Kaine reintroduced a War Powers resolution. We have and will continue to ask Members of Congress to take specific actions:

Press for continued U.S. diplomatic engagements to end hostilities and prevent further loss of civilian lives. Distinguish between the Iranian people and the Islamic Republic regime in all discussions related to Iran. Ensure that policy decisions reflect the reality of Iranian society and help protect civilians from becoming collateral damage.

Implement internet freedom initiatives passed into law as part of the 2025 NDAA to maintain contact with loved ones during this emergency and counter the regime’s censorship and internet shutdowns.

Defend the civil liberties of Iranian Americans and ensure our community is not unfairly targeted or discriminated against (as was the case after 9/11) due to geopolitical tensions as the possibility of U.S. action increases.

We are already seeing some impact in Congress. Since Friday, a number of Members have indeed been making statements reflecting these requests.

Representative Franklin Scott clearly asserted, “amid escalating conflict,” the U.S. has no issue with the Iranian people. This has been repeated by representatives Brian Fitzpatrick, Zach Nunn, Brad Nunn, and others.

In supporting the diplomatic efforts of the U.S., Rep. Scott also stands with the Iranian American community, “who have fled the regime’s brutality and built meaningful lives here in America.” He rightly notes that we, “are valued members” in communities across the United States and reaffirmed the importance of our constitutional and civil rights.

Our rights as Americans include telling Congress that we do not want the U.S. dragged into a war with Iran, and we want to see every diplomatic tool expended to de-escalate and stop this conflict from taking additional innocent lives.

We must all take action! Use this action alert to tell your Member of Congress precisely this: Prioritize de-escalation, prevent further civilian casualties, and avoid US military entanglement. As Iranian Americans, now is the time to speak out — for our families, our rights, and innocent lives.

Team PAAIA