New Bill Proposes Using Confiscated Iranian Assets & Tech to Boost Internet Freedom, Support Dissidents

The "Maximum Support Act" lays out a plan for the U.S. government to actively back Iranians seeking democratic change. It directs key agencies like the State and Treasury Departments, within 180 days, to develop strategies focused on breaking down internet censorship, using seized Iranian government funds for support programs, and increasing pressure on the current regime.

Plugging Iranians into the Uncensored Web

A major piece of this bill tackles internet access head-on. Section 3 calls for a new task force (involving State, Treasury, and the US Agency for Global Media) to figure out how to help Iranians bypass government blocks. Think specialized VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) designed to be secure and reliable against Iranian surveillance, plus exploring cutting-edge satellite internet options like direct-to-cell tech and distributing eSIMs – essentially digital SIM cards – that could connect phones directly to satellite networks. The plan needs to address Iran's reported restrictions on newer iPhones (Sec 3 specifically mentions 14, 15, and 16) thought to be related to this satellite capability. It also requires vetting any tech partners to ensure they aren't linked to the regime and identifying state-sponsored VPNs used for spying.

Crucially, Section 5 requires a parallel strategy to make sure U.S. sanctions don't accidentally block Iranians from getting these very internet freedom tools. This involves potentially issuing specific licenses or waivers so tech companies and NGOs can provide services like secure messaging apps without running afoul of sanctions or inadvertently helping the regime.

Turning Seized Funds into Support

Section 4 introduces a significant financial lever: confiscating Iranian government funds currently under U.S. jurisdiction. Instead of sitting frozen, this money would be deposited into the Treasury's general fund and specifically earmarked for several purposes:

• Funding groups within Iran working non-violently towards democracy (with requirements for transparency and measurable results).
• Creating a "strikers fund" to support vetted individuals involved in peaceful opposition.
• Providing humanitarian aid and medical supplies through trusted partners, with strict monitoring to prevent diversion to the regime.
• Supporting efforts to document human rights abuses.
• Funding the internet freedom initiatives mentioned earlier. To keep things above board, the bill mandates annual audits by the Comptroller General and agency Inspectors General to ensure none of these funds end up benefiting the Iranian government.

Broader Pressure and Support Tactics

Beyond tech and finance, the bill outlines a wider strategy (Sec 6) involving diplomacy (including a potential Special Representative), targeted sanctions enforcement by Treasury, intelligence gathering to expose repression, and expanded broadcasting by the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) to provide uncensored news.

It also pushes for potentially labeling Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) – a formal designation with legal and financial consequences – requiring the Secretary of State to make a determination within 90 days (Sec 7). Furthermore, Sections 8 and 10 mandate developing a strategy to encourage defections from Iranian government and security officials, offering incentives and safety assurances, managed by an interagency group. Finally, Section 9 directs the creation of a cybersecurity assistance program specifically for Iranian dissidents, journalists, and activists, providing secure tools, training, and rapid support against regime cyberattacks.