Bipartisan momentum is building in the U.S. Congress to lock in permanent sanctions against Iran, as lawmakers seek to eliminate the risk of future lapses in American pressure on the regime.
The Solidify Iran Sanctions Act of 2025—introduced in the Senate after unanimously passing the House earlier this month—would permanently extend provisions of the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996, removing the current sunset clause that allows it to expire.
The legislation aims to enshrine into law key restrictions targeting Iran’s energy sector, weapons development, and support for terrorist organizations, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Supporters say the move is necessary amid growing threats posed by Iran’s weapons programs and regional destabilization efforts.
“Sanctions have been critical in holding Iran accountable for its destabilizing actions, including support for terrorist proxies,” said Senator Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), one of the bill’s original sponsors. “With Iran closer than ever to a nuclear weapon, I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing bipartisan legislation that applies pressure on the Iranian regime.”
Other key Senate co-sponsors include Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.).
Senator Hassan emphasized the national security implications: “We must prevent Iran from building a nuclear weapon and stop its support of terrorism. By making permanent energy and weapons sanctions on Iran, this bipartisan legislation will strengthen American national security and send a clear signal that the United States will not tolerate Iran’s aggression.”
Bill Summary: Solidify Iran Sanctions Act of 2025 (H.R. 1800)
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Title: Solidify Iran Sanctions Act of 2025
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Purpose: Permanently repeals the sunset clause of the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996
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Findings:
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Iran continues to develop illicit weapons and support terrorism through groups like the IRGC.
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The regime acquires destabilizing weapons systems from foreign adversaries such as Russia and funnels arms and financial support to terrorist proxies across the Middle East.
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Policy Statement: The United States will fully implement and enforce sanctions against Iran under the 1996 law.
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Action: Removes Section 13 of the 1996 Act, eliminating the expiration provision.
The bill is now under review by the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.
