Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026

This bill establishes a comprehensive United States policy to promote human rights, internet freedom, and accountability in Iran. It aims to support the Iranian people's right to self-determination, facilitate unrestricted internet access, and assist civil society in documenting abuses. The policy also mandates full enforcement of sanctions against human rights violators and their family members, while coordinating with allies to deter violence against protesters. The legislation designates the Secretary of State as the primary official for promoting internet freedom in Iran, coordinating all related federal efforts, and updating the comprehensive strategy. This updated strategy must evaluate virtual private networks (VPNs) and direct-to-cell satellite technologies, develop methods to circumvent internet blackouts, and ensure sanctions do not impede technology provision to Iranian civilians. A joint working group is also established to develop low-cost, rapidly deployable technologies like satellite internet and mesh networking to counter internet shutdowns. The bill requires a new report on internet freedom, assessing direct-to-cell wireless communications and the impact of jamming technologies, and extends funding for the Iran Internet Freedom Grant Program . It also mandates the President to identify foreign persons providing material support for the Iranian regime's human rights abuses or censorship for potential sanctions. Additionally, a strategy is required to expand U.S. and international broadcasting efforts and human rights assistance in Iran, supporting independent media and civil society. To further support civil society, the Secretary of State must establish programs offering cybersecurity training and digital-safety tools, including VPNs and encrypted messaging, to Iranian journalists and civil society actors. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is also directed to report on federal expenditures for Near East Regional Democracy programs related to Iran, assessing their effectiveness. Finally, the bill explicitly states that its provisions do not authorize the use of military force.