Press Releases

Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, today introduced H. Res. 675 condemning the government of Iran for its violence against demonstrators and calling for a peaceful resolution to the concerns of the citizens of Iran.

“At this critical time, it is vital to lend our support to the Iranian people and their pursuit of freedom. The United States is committed to promoting universal human rights, especially freedom of speech and freedom of assembly,” said Banks. “The people of Iran deserve bipartisan American support in their pursuit of reforms and a democratic government.”

Original cosponsors include fellow Hoosiers, Representatives Luke Messer and Todd Rokita. The full text of the resolution is below.

BACKGROUND:

On December 28, 2017, citizens began protesting in Mashhad, Iran in response to rising prices of basic goods and high unemployment rates, despite an influx of cash following the 2015 nuclear agreement. News of the protests began to spread through the use of communications apps such as Instagram, Facebook and Telegram, and more demonstrations have since erupted in dozens of cities. Iran’s regime has restricted use of the aforementioned apps, made 450 arrests and used tear gas on crowds in attempts to silence its citizens. There have been at least 20 reported deaths since the protests began.

RESOLUTION

Condemning the Government of Iran for its violence against

demonstrators and calling for peaceful resolution to the

concerns of the citizens of Iran.

Whereas on December 28, 2017, citizens began protesting the

Government of Iran across the country in the cities and

towns of Dorud, Khomaini Shahr, Najafabad,

Qahdarijan, Tehran, and Tuyserkan;

Whereas so far 20 people have been killed and 450 have been

arrested since demonstrations first began;

Whereas the United States is committed to promoting universal

human rights, specifically freedom of speech and

freedom of assembly;

Whereas the Government of Iran has provided monetary support

to terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah and

Hamas; and

Whereas the citizens of Iran deserve the support of the international

community in their pursuit of a democratic government

that respects human rights and freedoms: Now,

therefore be it

Resolved, That the House of Representatives—

(1) condemns the Government of Iran—

(A) for its funding of terrorist organizations and activities;

(B) the continued oppression of its citizens; and

(C) the suppression of communication

through interference with internet applications

such as Instagram, Facebook, Telegram and

Twitter; and

(2) reaffirms—

(A) the commitment of the United States

to preserving and promoting the freedoms of

speech and assembly as universal rights; and

(B) the support of the United States for

the citizens of Iran to establish a freely elected,

democratic system.

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Interested members of the media may contact Andrea Palermo at andrea.palermo@mail.house.gov.