Maximum Pressure Act

This bill tightens and expands U.S. sanctions on Iran. It locks in many existing sanctions and says the U.S. cannot ease them unless Iran stops supporting terrorism, halts its missile program, and dismantles its nuclear weapons work. It also bars U.S. officials from offering sanctions relief or engaging with certain Iranian officials tied to deadly attacks on Americans, except in emergencies or for humanitarian reasons.

It targets Iran’s top leadership and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) by freezing assets, blocking transactions, and denying visas to people involved in these activities. It broadens shipping‑sector sanctions and tightens rules on bank transfers to or from Iran, including U.S.‑dollar transactions by foreign banks. The government’s ability to issue waivers is sharply limited until February 1, 2028 .

It also raises rewards for information on terrorists linked to the October 7, 2023 attacks and the IRGC, up to $25 million, with the option to go higher by special approval. It directs certain frozen Iranian funds to the U.S. Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund and seeks to help victims collect court judgments. There is also a new fund to support Iranian workers on strike and families of political prisoners, paid for with sanctions penalties and seized assets .

Key points

• Who is affected:
  • U.S. and foreign banks and shipping companies face tighter rules and more sanctions risk .
  • Iran’s leaders, the IRGC, and those tied to missile/drone programs face asset freezes and visa bans .
  • Terror victims and families may see more funding and help collecting judgments .
  • Iranian civil society may get support through a new strike and family‑aid fund.
• What changes:
  • Past sanctions are locked in and hard to lift until strict conditions are met.
  • Broader bans on transfers and trade with Iran; stronger oversight and reporting on violations .
  • Higher rewards for tips on terrorists tied to the October 7 attacks and the IRGC.
• When:
  • Sanctions on Iran’s Supreme Leader within 30 days of enactment.
  • Frozen funds moved to the Victims Fund within 90 days.
  • First sanctions‑violations report within 30 days, then annually.
  • Waiver and license authorities restricted until February 1, 2028 .