Sanction Sea Pirates Act of 2025

This bill targets modern-day sea piracy. It requires the President to punish foreign people and groups that take part in piracy by freezing any property they have in the United States and by blocking their visas and entry into the country. It comes after a rise in attacks on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden and a new surge of Somali pirate activity since late 2023, which has hurt global shipping.

The government must also revoke any current U.S. visas for people tied to piracy, and there are civil and criminal penalties for anyone who tries to break or dodge these rules. Certain exceptions apply so that humanitarian aid and U.S. national security work are not harmed.

• Who is affected: Foreign individuals or organizations that knowingly engage in piracy.
• What changes:
  • U.S. property and transactions are blocked for those involved.
  • They are denied visas, entry, or parole into the United States, and existing visas are revoked.
  • Penalties apply to anyone who violates or tries to violate the sanctions rules.
• Key exceptions:
  • Humanitarian goods and aid (like food and medicine) and related financial transactions are allowed.
  • U.S. intelligence, law enforcement, and national security activities are not restricted.
  • The bill does not require bans on importing goods.
  • The President may waive sanctions if crucial for U.S. national security.