Lafayette Reporter

Senators John Kennedy, Tom Cotton, and Mitch McConnell have introduced legislation to halt the transfer of $6 billion in assets from the Biden administration to Iran. The bill aims to prevent the flow of funds to the Islamic Republic, which has been accused of sponsoring terrorism and carrying out attacks against American targets and Israel.

The introduction of this legislation comes shortly after the Biden administration's controversial decision to transfer the funds to Iran without congressional review. Senator Kennedy expressed his concerns about the transfer, stating, "Allowing the transfer to go through would further enable and embolden Iran's proxy armies."

Senator Cotton, highlighting Iran's role as the world's worst state sponsor of terrorism, criticized the administration's decision and its impact on Israel. He stated, "The Biden administration's decision to let Iran access the $6 billion immediately freed up other money for the regime to fund its attacks in Israel. The Biden administration should immediately re-freeze the funds."

Senator McConnell emphasized the need for serious consequences against the Iranian regime, which aids and abets terrorism. He stated, "The civilized world must re-impose serious consequences on the regime that aids and abets murderous evil against innocent Israelis. The United States must lead that effort by our example, and freezing Iranian assets is an important first step."

In August, Senator Kennedy expressed his concerns to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen regarding the circumvention of congressional authority in the potential nuclear agreement with Iran. The transfer of assets in exchange for U.S. prisoners was a particular point of contention.

The bill introduced by Senators Kennedy, Cotton, and McConnell seeks to freeze the $6 billion transfer to Iran and prevent the funds from being used to support terrorist activities. The legislation aims to hold the Biden administration accountable and ensure that congressional oversight is upheld in matters of such significance.

The full text of the bill can be accessed here.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.kennedy.senate.gov/public/press-releases?ID=92CFC7E6-D360-42A2-B66E-618ECF7B9E66