Banks Introduces Resolution Supporting Iranian Protesters

Press Release

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.

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.

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