Ft Wayne Times

Washington D.C., April 24, 2024 - Congressman Jim Banks' MAHSA Act, legislation aimed at sanctioning the Iranian regime for its human rights abuses, has been signed into law. The Act, which was first introduced during the 117th Congress following the tragic murder of Mahsa Amini, has garnered significant support and praise from various stakeholders.

In response to the enactment of the MAHSA Act, Congressman Banks emphasized the significance of the legislation, stating, “My MAHSA Act includes some of the toughest Iran sanctions to pass through Congress and become law since I was first elected in 2016. This bill marks a big step towards undoing Joe Biden’s policy of appeasement that has destabilized the Middle East and endangered our ally Israel. The MAHSA Act will force this president to hold Iran accountable.”

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also commended the MAHSA Act, highlighting its importance in the context of the Maximum Pressure campaign, stating, “Rep. Banks’ MAHSA Act is an important step towards the successful Maximum Pressure campaign I oversaw in 2018. Maximum pressure works and will restore deterrence in the Middle East.”

The National Union for Democracy in Iran expressed their support for the MAHSA Act, stating, “The MAHSA Act marks an historic step in the pursuit of justice and accountability for the Iranian people. By targeting the dictators of the Islamic Republic, along with their associates, this legislation sets a profound precedent for America's commitment to human rights and democracy in Iran."

Additionally, United Against Nuclear Iran applauded the passage of the MAHSA Act, noting that it will pave the way for long overdue sanctions on key figures within the Iranian regime.

The MAHSA Act had garnered significant support, with 128 House cosponsors and backing from organizations such as the National Union for Democracy in Iran, United Against Nuclear Iran, and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. Congressman Banks had also re-introduced the Maximum Pressure Act, aimed at codifying the Trump administration's maximum pressure campaign on Iran, alongside former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, further emphasizing his commitment to holding Iran accountable for its actions.