PAAIA:

For nearly five decades, the people of Iran have endured repression under the Islamic Republic — a regime that systematically denies basic human rights, silences dissent, and responds to peaceful protest with violence. In late 2025, Iranians across the country took to the streets in response to ongoing economic hardship to demand human rights, economic opportunity, and fundamental freedoms. In response to these protests, the Iranian regime escalated its brutality, killing demonstrators, arresting tens of thousands, and restricting internet access. 

To reaffirm the United States’ commitment to human rights and democratic principles, Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) have introduced the Iran Protest Resolution. (link their press release here)

What the Iran Protest Resolution Does 

This resolution formally states that the U.S. Senate: 

- Strongly condemns the Government of Iran’s killing of protestors and bystanders

- Condemns the Government of Iran for its suppression of Iranians’ basic human rights, including their right to peacefully assemble

- Commends the courage of the Iranian people to protest amid increased and harsh persecution from the Government of Iran

- Calls on the Government of Iran to hold free and fair elections and allow the people of Iran to determine their own future

- Supports the calls of the Iranian people to bring human rights violators to justice

Why It Matters 

If passed, this resolution will formally condemn the Iranian regime’s violent crackdown on protestors and affirm the Iranian people’s right to determine their future through free and fair elections.  

Encourage your members of Congress to support the Iran Resolution Act and reaffirm the United States’ commitment to standing with the Iranian people who peacefully demand freedom.

The Iran Protest Resolution has been cosponsored on the Senate side by Senators Booker, Boozman, Britt, Budd, Capito, Cramer, Cruz, Ernst, Fischer, Grassley, Hoeven, Kaine, Merkley, Mullin, Ricketts, Rosen, Sullivan, and Van Hollen.

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