WASHINGTON, D.C.—Bryan Steil’s amendment to require the Department of Defense to inform Congress on the threats posed by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq passed the House and was included in the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Steil voted in support of the NDAA which passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 295-125.
“I am proud to support our men and women in uniform. The NDAA ensures our military has the tools and resources to protect our nation at home and abroad. America and our allies face a number of threats across the globe. It is great to see my amendment holding Iran accountable pass the House. Our national security strategy must combat aggression from Iran and its militias. I will continue working with my colleagues to support our military and deter Iran’s influence throughout the globe,” said Steil.
On background:
Iranian-backed militias in Iraq have been involved in grave human rights abuses. These militias have shot pro-democracy protestors in Iraq and were also under the command of Qasem Soleimani who attacked U.S. forces in Baghdad in December 2019. Steil’s amendment requires the Department of Defense to inform Congress on the threats posed by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq.
Steil has been an outspoken proponent of increasing pressure on Iran and ensuring Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon. Steil introduced the Stop Evasion of Iran Sanctions Act giving the Secretary of the Treasury critical tools to prevent European companies from avoiding U.S. sanctions by inappropriately trading with Iran through a backchannel known as INSTEX. Steil also penned an op-ed in the Washington Examiner about the need to hold Iran accountable during the coronavirus pandemic.
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) gives our men and women in uniform the resources, training, and equipment needed to keep our country safe. The NDAA supports the pay and benefits of our military personnel and their families. It also includes investments in critical emerging technology areas including artificial intelligence and biotechnology.
