In light of ongoing diplomatic discussions between the U.S. and Iran, three congress members from New York have urged that any future peace agreement must prioritize compensation for victims affected by terrorism, particularly those related to the September 11, 2001 attacks. This call, articulated in a letter to President Donald Trump, emphasizes the need for justice for victims and their families who have not yet received the monetary reparations they deserve.
Importance of Victim Compensation
Representatives Laura Gillen, Nicole Malliotakis, and Mike Lawler collectively highlight the substantial financial burdens faced by terror victims and their families due to Iran’s lack of accountability. They assert that these individuals are owed billions in judgments resulting from legal proceedings that have held Iran responsible for acts of terrorism. The lawmakers stress the prolonged suffering of these victims, underscoring that adequate compensation should not be overlooked in negotiations surrounding a potential peace treaty.
Concerns Over Current Negotiations
In their correspondence, the representatives voice concerns regarding a recent memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran that permits Iran to sell oil and access previously frozen assets. This memorandum might facilitate Iran’s access to as much as $24 billion in frozen funds. The lawmakers fear that allowing Iran to benefit economically could take precedence over addressing the rightful compensation owed to victims of terrorism. They assert that any economic benefits granted to Iran must not undermine the reparation claims standing against the nation.
Legal Obligations for Compensation
The representatives advocate that Trump has a legal responsibility to address these compensation issues, citing a law enacted in 2015 known as the Justice for United States Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Act. This legislation obligates the President to pursue the recovery of funds from state sponsors of terrorism, and the lawmakers insist that this mandate must inform negotiations with Iran. They argue that any discussions about normalizing relations must come with the stipulation that past debts owed to American terror victims are resolved.
The Legacy of September 11
The lawmakers emphasize that since 1979, Iran has consistently been linked to supporting terrorist activities that have claimed many American lives. Notably, federal courts have recognized Iran’s role in providing support to al-Qaida, which contributed to the 9/11 attacks. While no Iranian nationals participated in the hijackings, judicial findings indicate that Iran bears some responsibility through its material support for the terrorist group. With nearly 500 residents from Long Island among the victims, the long-lasting impact of this tragedy remains a pivotal point of concern for the congress members.
As negotiations continue, Gillen, Malliotakis, and Lawler are adamant that justice for terror victims must remain an integral component of any treaty with Iran. They have made it clear that the rights and needs of those who suffered must not be sidelined, especially as the nation approaches the 25th anniversary of 9/11. As the dialogue with Iran evolves, the pursuit of justice and compensation for victims stands as a crucial moral imperative that must be acknowledged by U.S. policymakers.