The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill Friday imposing sanctions on those involved in Iranian oil production, shipping, or sales. The bill, which passed by 342 to 69, is part of a larger effort to disrupt funding for Middle East terror groups. The bill was presented earlier in the year but gained increased relevance following Hamas’ surprise terror attack on Israel on October 7th.
The bill’s sponsor, New York GOP Representative Mike Lawler, said the legislation aims to deliver a stern message to those involved with Iranian oil, underscoring the link to regional terrorism. One of the main targets of these sanctions, according to argument by lawmakers, would be China, the largest purchaser of Iranian oil.
Earlier in the week, the House passed a bill imposing sanctions on foreign states or individuals knowingly assisting Hamas or related organizations. While recent events have led to a strong bipartisan consensus on many pro-Israel measures, GOP’s attempt to couple a $14.3 billion Israeli aid bill with an equal amount of IRS funding cuts led to only 12 Democrats in support of that bill. The House also passed by 396 to 23 on Thursday, a resolution condemning pro-Palestine demonstrations in U.S. colleges, stating such instances create hostile environments for Jewish students, faculty, and staff.
