Reaffirming Iran remains the largest state sponsor of terrorism.

Bill Number

H.Res. 1099

Origin Chamber

House

Congress

119th Congress, Session 2

Policy Area

International Affairs

Status

Passed House

Latest Action

2026-03-05: Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

Last Updated

2026-07-11T21:59:40Z

AI-Generated Summary

Purpose

This House Resolution (H. Res. 1099) aims to formally declare and reaffirm the United States' policy stance on Iran, specifically stating that Iran remains the world's largest state sponsor of terrorism. It provides a series of factual "Whereas" clauses to justify this declaration, highlighting Iran's alleged support for terrorist groups, threats to U.S. security, and nuclear activities.

Key Provisions

• Declaration of Policy: The resolution explicitly states that "it is the policy of the United States that Iran continues to be the largest state sponsor of terrorism."
• Supporting Rationale (outlined in "Whereas" clauses):
• Iran provides financial and military aid to groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis.
• Iran poses a direct threat to the U.S., including responsibility for hundreds of American deaths, such as 603 U.S. servicemembers killed by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq (2003–2011).
• Iran has attempted assassinations of U.S. citizens and officials on U.S. soil.
• Iran harbors al-Qaeda leaders and provides them sanctuary for fundraising.
• Recent incident: In January 2024, three U.S. servicemembers (Sergeant William Jerome Rivers, Specialist Kennedy Ladon Sanders, and Specialist Breonna Alexsondria Moffett) were killed in a drone attack on Tower 22 in Jordan by an Iranian-backed group.
• Iran's nuclear program, missile development, and weapons activities led to the reimposition of six United Nations Security Council resolutions in September 2025.
• Iran has stockpiled enriched uranium and restricted access to suspected nuclear sites, as noted by International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This is a non-binding resolution from the House of Representatives, so it does not amend or create new laws. It reinforces existing U.S. designations of Iran as a state sponsor of terrorism (e.g., under the State Department's list since 1984) without introducing legal changes. It serves as a declarative statement rather than enforceable legislation.

Potential Impacts

• On Government Agencies: May guide or bolster the State Department, Department of Defense, and intelligence agencies in maintaining sanctions and counter-terrorism strategies against Iran. It could influence executive branch actions, such as military responses or diplomatic negotiations.
• On Citizens: Provides symbolic support for U.S. servicemembers and families affected by Iranian-backed attacks, potentially increasing public awareness of threats but without direct protections or benefits.
• On International Relations: Signals strong U.S. opposition to Iran, potentially straining relations with Tehran and its allies while strengthening ties with partners concerned about Iranian terrorism (e.g., Israel, Gulf states). It may complicate nuclear talks or UN efforts by reaffirming sanctions.

Main Stakeholders Affected

• U.S. Government and Military: Congress, Pentagon, and affected servicemembers or their families, as the resolution highlights casualties from Iranian actions.
• Iranian Regime and Proxies: Directly targets Iran and groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, and al-Qaeda elements, potentially justifying increased U.S. pressure.
• International Community: United Nations, International Atomic Energy Agency, and allies facing Iranian threats, as it references global resolutions and nuclear concerns.
• U.S. Citizens: Those targeted by alleged Iranian plots, emphasizing domestic security implications.

Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications

• Legal: As a simple resolution (H. Res.), it is a House-only action without Senate involvement or presidential signature, limiting it to an internal policy expression. It aligns with existing laws like the Iran Sanctions Act but does not enforce new penalties.
• Constitutional: Falls under Congress's power to declare policy on foreign affairs (Article I), though it is advisory and does not infringe on the president's treaty or commander-in-chief roles.
• Political: Reinforces a bipartisan hawkish stance on Iran in the 119th Congress (2025–2026), potentially rallying support for tougher policies amid ongoing Middle East tensions. It could escalate rhetorical conflicts but risks politicizing foreign policy without concrete actions.

This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.

Sponsor

Rep. Mast, Brian J. [R-FL-21]

Cosponsors (2)

Rep. Houchin, Erin [R-IN-9], Rep. Issa, Darrell [R-CA-48]

Recent Actions

• 2026-03-05: Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
• 2026-03-05: On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 372 - 53, 2 Present (Roll no. 84). (Roll call 84)
• 2026-03-05: Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 372 - 53, 2 Present (Roll no. 84). (Roll call 84)
• 2026-03-05: Considered as unfinished business. (consideration: CR H2448-2449)
• 2026-03-04: At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
• 2026-03-04: DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1099.
• 2026-03-04: Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H2392-2395; text: CR H2392)
• 2026-03-04: Mr. Mast moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.
• 2026-03-04: Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
• 2026-03-04: Submitted in House
• 2026-03-04: Submitted in House

Bill Versions

• Reaffirming Iran remains the largest state sponsor of terrorism. — issued 2026-03-05 — PDF (2 pages)
• Reaffirming Iran remains the largest state sponsor of terrorism. — issued 2026-03-04 — PDF (2 pages)