On July 25, 2024, the US Senate hosted a significant briefing organized by the Organization of Iranian American Communities (OIAC) to discuss a robust policy towards the Iranian regime. Key figures delivered speeches, supporting Bipartisan Resolution 599, aimed at protecting the rights of Iranian political refugees in Ashraf-3, Albania.
In a video message to a US Senate briefing, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), emphasized the necessity of a robust policy towards the Iranian regime. Her address supported Bipartisan Resolution 599, aimed at protecting the rights of Iranian political refugees in Ashraf-3, Albania.
Mrs. Rajavi thanked Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Thom Tillis, and other co-sponsors of the resolution, acknowledging their efforts against the religious fascism ruling Iran. She paid tribute to late Senators Joe Lieberman, John McCain, and Carl Levin for their roles in securing the safety of Ashraf residents.
Message to Us Senate meeting- bipartisan resolution in support of the rights of the residents of Ashraf 3
The Iranian regime will not change its behavior. The overthrow of the regime is the responsibility of the people of #Iran and the Iranian Resistancehttps://t.co/TpR3eDo7EP pic.twitter.com/AF3rXVRXRS— Maryam Rajavi (@Maryam_Rajavi) July 25, 2024
Highlighting the regime’s destabilizing activities, the NCRI President-elect said, “The Iranian regime, with its warmongering in the Middle East and terrorist operations across the world, is an urgent threat to peace and security.” She criticized Western governments for their failed appeasement policies over the past 40 years, which she argued have only emboldened the ruling mullahs.
Mrs. Rajavi called for comprehensive sanctions and accountability for the regime’s crimes but stressed that these measures alone are insufficient. “The overthrow of the regime is the responsibility of the people of Iran and the Iranian Resistance,” she asserted.
She highlighted the inspirational role of Ashraf-3 for Iran’s youth, noting that many residents are former political prisoners and witnesses to the regime’s atrocities. Mrs. Rajavi also condemned the regime’s ongoing political and terrorist plots against Ashraf-3 residents.
Concluding her message, Rajavi emphasized the need for the US Senate to recognize and support the Iranian Resistance’s efforts to overthrow the regime and establish a democratic, non-nuclear republic. “It is time for the United States Senate to lead a comprehensive policy towards Iran, based on recognizing the fight of the Resistance Units and the Iranian people’s struggle,” she declared.
Message to Us Senate meeting- bipartisan resolution in support of the rights of the residents of Ashraf 3
Holding the regime accountable for its crimes and imposing comprehensive sanctions and restrictions on it are essential components of a correct policy.
However, these are not… pic.twitter.com/SZwD7GfGOn— Maryam Rajavi (@Maryam_Rajavi) July 25, 2024
In his remarks, Senator Thom Tillis emphasized the importance of supporting the Iranian opposition and pushing for regime change. He acknowledged the significant role Albania has played in providing a safe haven for Ashraf 3, home to many members of the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK).
The Senator reflected on his early awareness of Iran’s cultural richness and the oppressive nature of its current regime. He condemned the Iranian leadership, stating, “We have to force regime change before we can have any hope of having a productive relationship.” He highlighted the necessity of cutting off financial and military support to the regime and building alliances with those who view Tehran as a common enemy.
Senator Tillis assured continued bipartisan support within the US Congress, emphasizing the importance of protecting Albania and Ashraf 3 from relentless attacks.
In conclusion, Tillis expressed his commitment to the cause, envisioning a future where a vibrant democracy exists in Iran. “Could you imagine how the world changes the day that we have a vibrant democracy in the country of Iran? So count me in for your support,” he declared, reaffirming his dedication to supporting the Iranian Resistance and striving for a free and peaceful Iran.
Senator Tillis introducing bipartisan Senate Resolution 599
🔗: https://t.co/Qzy79otrmS pic.twitter.com/us6fOZwGn7
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) July 25, 2024
In his remarks, General James Jones, former US National Security Advisor, emphasized the urgent need for a decisive approach to the Iranian regime. Speaking passionately, Jones highlighted the necessity of ending the regime in Tehran, advocating for the principles of freedom and democracy championed by Mrs. Maryam Rajavi.
Gen. Jones condemned the policy of appeasement, stressing, “Appeasement does not work with a regime. It’s not going to work. It never has worked.” He called for a firm rejection of any conciliatory tactics, noting that the Iranian government’s pursuit of nuclear weapons poses a significant threat. Gen. Jones also urged a united front from the United States and its allies, insisting that American leadership is crucial in this endeavor.
Highlighting the sacrifices made by the residents of Ashraf, Gen. Jones recounted the tragic attacks on the community by Iraqi forces, which were carried out using American equipment. He praised the bravery of these individuals and condemned the ongoing cyber-attacks against Ashraf residents in Albania by the clerical regime in Iran.
The former US National Security Advisor also addressed the regime’s defamation campaign against the NCRI and the MEK in the media, stating, “We must defeat a pretty serious embedded belief that somehow, the NCRI and the MEK, is an evil organization.” He emphasized the importance of educating the public and elected representatives about the true nature of these organizations and their commitment to democratic principles.
In his conclusion, Jones expressed his determination to witness the fall of the Iranian regime and the establishment of a democratic Iran. He called for a collective effort to support the resistance movement and ensure the success of their cause. “American leadership at the point of the spear is absolutely essential if we’re going to be successful in witnessing the fall of the regime,” he declared.
General James Jones speaking from the heart in support of the Jefersonian like 10-points plan introduced by Maryam Rajavi for a non-nuclear, secular republic Iran.
Senator Tillis joins the briefing.
Gen. Jones: "appeasement with Iran does not work and is not a viable strategy.… pic.twitter.com/RFQTjP35JF
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) July 25, 2024
Lt. General Keith Kellogg, former National Security Advisor to Vice President Mike Pence, highlighted the urgent need for a robust approach to the regime in Iran. Drawing on his extensive experience, General Kellogg warned of the potential for escalating conflict in the Middle East, driven by Iranian influence.
Reflecting on his service in the US administration, Kellogg said, “The most important issue is what’s happening in the Middle East right now, driven by Iran.” He underscored the importance of maintaining this pressure, noting, “Appeasement does not work.”
The three-star General highlighted the regime’s role as a destabilizing force, emphasizing its support for terrorist groups and proxy forces. Reflecting on past efforts to curb Tehran’s influence, he discussed the imposition of sanctions and the significant impact they had on Iran’s economy. He expressed concern over the current lack of pressure, stating, “Appeasement does not work. The sanctions broke their back economically. We need to maintain that pressure.”
Addressing the broader implications, Kellogg warned against the consequences of a nuclear-armed Iran and its alliances. “Iran is aligning itself with other adversaries, and this poses a significant threat to global security,” he stated.
In closing, Gen. Kellogg called for a clear and resolute U.S. policy, urging immediate and decisive action to counter Iranian aggression. “It takes a resolute commitment to understand that appeasement does not work. This is the most critical issue we face, and it must be addressed now,” he concluded.
Happening now during @OrgIAC Briefing in the US Senate: @generalkellogg said, "we can not keep pushing the can down the road…there is appeasement [in current Iran policy] and it must end." @SenateForeign @SFRCdems pic.twitter.com/ZcxLLx01pR
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) July 25, 2024
Senator Sam Brownback, former US Governor and Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom called for decisive action against the Iranian regime to prevent a potential global conflict. Senator Brownback stressed, “We are on the edge of World War III, and Iran is the pool of gas to ignite it.”
The former governor highlighted Tehran’s central role in what he called the axis of evil, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the ruling mullahs, stating, “The sooner you get on top of it, the more your options are, the more likely a good outcome comes.”
He called for maximum economic and political pressure on the regime and public support for opposition groups like the MEK. “We need to publicly back those that are confronting the regime,” he asserted. Brownback also advocated for supporting the Kurdish people in Iran and recognizing their autonomous region.
Addressing the global threat, Brownback warned against diplomatic hesitation. “The time for us to be diplomatic about this is gone,” he declared, urging immediate and resolute action to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and escalating conflicts further.
In closing, Brownback emphasized the need for building political alliances outside Iran and garnering support from diverse groups to push for regime change. “It’s time. We need to get this moving forward much more aggressively,” he concluded, calling for united efforts to confront the Iranian regime decisively.
Ambassador Sam Brownback (@SamuelBrownback) addressing the senate briefing:
“This is the time for clarity, we need to publicly support the opposition. We need to say we support regime change by the people of Iran…We need to publicly back the MEK. We need to stand with the… pic.twitter.com/kToxlVbJK6
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) July 25, 2024
In a heartfelt speech, Colonel Dr. Gary Morsch, an Army reservist and physician, passionately advocated for the People’s Mojahedin Organization (PMOI/MEK) and a free Iran, recounting his experiences at Camp Ashraf as the head of the military medical unit in Iraq. Addressing the audience, Col. Morsch extended a special greeting to the residents at Ashraf 3 in Albania and highlighted the bravery of the MEK, who have demonstrated steadfastness and commitment to democratic principles, especially during critical times.
Col. Morsch shared his initial skepticism upon being assigned to Camp Ashraf in 2003, where he was tasked with overseeing the medical needs of MEK members. Despite initial warnings by then-US officials that the MEK were “bad people” and “terrorists,” Morsch’s interactions and experiences at Ashraf profoundly changed his perspective. He lauded the MEK’s commitment to gender equality and religious equality, expressing astonishment that the leadership of the organization mainly consists of female leaders.
Reflecting on the situation, Col. Morsch stated, “We need to partner with them to resist this Iranian regime,” emphasizing the MEK as vital allies in the fight against Iranian influence in the Middle East. He criticized the disarmament of the MEK, noting, “We should not have disarmed them. We should have let them seal the border with Iran.”
Col. Morsch underscored the significance of supporting the MEK, citing the endorsements of prominent figures from previous US administrations. He urged for continued advocacy and support for the organization, stating, “The MEK are champions. We need to engage, support, and say to the whole world, the MEK are our friends, our partners.”
In closing, Col. Morsch expressed his hope for a free and democratic Iran, envisioning a nation with unparalleled freedom and equality. He commended Mrs. Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan and reiterated the collective fight for the same values. “We’re all fighting for the same thing,” Morsch concluded, affirming his commitment to the cause.
Col. Dr. Gary Morsch addressing senate briefing as the first American who visited Camp Ashraf in 2003, "the real champions are in Ashraf 3… their leaders are primarily women.. they believe in peace and democracy. I have become their advocate. We need to support them." pic.twitter.com/kLGY3avbOV
— OIAC: Organization of Iranian American Communities (@OrgIAC) July 25, 2024
