PAAIA:

Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans

Last December, Congress passed the Strategy and Grant Program to Promote Internet Freedom in Iran, included in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025. Commonly known as the IRAN Act, this legislation authorizes $30 million in grant funding over two years to expand digital access, support VPN technology, and counter internet censorship in Iran.

While the IRAN Act is now law, its funds have not yet been fully appropriated or implemented. PAAIA continues to work closely with partners and policymakers to ensure that these authorized grants are delivered swiftly and effectively to those working to expand secure communications for the Iranian people.

Previously, PAAIA shared with you a Washington Post article on the status of the grant funding. Today, we share A recent New York Times article, “Iran Extends Internet Clampdown Beyond Wartime,” highlights why this work is so urgent. The piece details how the Iranian government has severely throttled internet traffic, jammed GPS, and criminalized VPN use, leaving millions of Iranians struggling to communicate, access basic services, or connect with the outside world.

PAAIA remains steadfast in advocating for the full implementation of the IRAN Act and in supporting every effort to ensure that Iranians have access to open, secure, and reliable internet—a critical lifeline for freedom of information and connection.

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