Maximum Support Act Mandates Secure VPNs, Satellite Tech, and Seizure of Iranian Assets to Fund Dissidents

The Maximum Support Act is a major piece of foreign policy legislation aimed squarely at supporting the Iranian people’s efforts to establish a democratic system based on human rights. It’s not just talk; the bill sets up a detailed, multi-agency strategy to bypass the Iranian regime’s censorship, drain its financial resources, and provide direct support and security to activists and journalists inside the country.

The Internet Freedom Fight: Secure VPNs and Satellite Access

If you’ve ever been frustrated by slow, restricted internet, imagine your government actively trying to shut it off or spy on you every time you log on. That’s the reality this bill aims to change. Section 3 mandates the creation of an Anti-Censorship Task Force, led by the State and Treasury Departments, to develop a strategy within 180 days to counter Iranian censorship. This strategy has some serious tech requirements.

First, they have to plan for setting up a highly secure, constantly updated Virtual Private Network (VPN) specifically for users in Iran, guaranteeing uncensored access while protecting them from surveillance. Second, the plan must detail how the U.S. will deploy advanced satellite communications, including direct-to-cell technology and the distribution of digital SIM cards (eSIMs), to provide seamless internet access that the regime can’t easily jam or block. Think of it as a massive, government-backed effort to provide a secure digital lifeline, complete with cybersecurity training for high-risk users like activists and journalists (Section 9).

Crucially, Section 5 requires a separate strategy to ensure that existing U.S. sanctions don't accidentally block the Iranian people from getting these necessary tools. This means creating clear licenses and waivers for tech companies to provide VPNs, secure messaging apps, and satellite gear to Iranian citizens without running afoul of sanctions, ensuring the Iranian regime doesn't profit from the arrangement.

Seizing Assets to Fund Resistance

This bill doesn't just focus on technology; it targets the regime’s wallet. Section 4 authorizes the President to seize any funds belonging to the Government of Iran or its agents that are currently under U.S. jurisdiction. Once confiscated, these assets are immediately deposited into the U.S. Treasury, but they are earmarked for a specific purpose: supporting the transition to democracy in Iran.

This money is intended to fund groups that can show measurable results in promoting democracy and human rights. For the everyday Iranian, this means the funds can be used to set up a “strikers fund” to help vetted individuals participating in nonviolent opposition activities. It also provides resources for humanitarian aid, medical supplies (with strict monitoring to ensure the regime doesn't benefit), and efforts to document human rights abuses like torture and illegal killings. To ensure accountability, the bill requires annual audits by the Comptroller and Inspectors General to verify that the regime does not materially benefit from any expenditure.

Encouraging Officials to Jump Ship

Beyond financial and digital pressure, the Maximum Support Act includes a direct human element. Section 8 mandates a strategy to encourage defections from the Iranian government and security forces. This isn't about recruiting spies; it’s about providing a secure exit for officials who want to support democratic change.

The plan requires setting up secure digital channels for contact, guaranteeing safety and security for defectors and their families, and establishing a multi-agency working group to manage the process. The strategy must also detail incentives, which could include financial assistance, job support, and housing aid, coordinated with U.S. domestic agencies. If successful and safe, the bill suggests publicizing these defections to encourage others to follow suit.

Finally, the bill takes a hard look at the regime's intelligence apparatus. Section 7 requires the Secretary of State to determine, within 90 days, whether Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) meets the legal criteria to be designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). If the Secretary agrees with Congress’s assessment that MOIS is responsible for terrorism and espionage, the designation must be made immediately, which would significantly increase the legal and financial pressure on the agency globally.