Victims of Iranian-Sponsored Terrorism Seek Restitution

Victims of Iranian-sponsored terrorism and their families are in Washington, urging President Trump to ensure Iran pays restitution as part of any peace deal. The group includes over 100 people who have won lawsuits against Iran in U.S. federal courts, securing judgments for tens of billions due to Iran’s involvement in major terror attacks worldwide. These attacks include the 1983 Beirut Marine barracks bombing, killing 241 U.S. service members, and numerous suicide bombings targeting Americans, particularly in Israel.

The American Victims of State-Sponsored Terrorism United sent a letter to President Trump. They insist no agreement should release Iranian assets or ease sanctions before resolving outstanding terrorism judgments. Angela Mistrulli, leading the Washington gathering, plans to deliver the letter to the president during a scheduled White House meeting. Her father, Joseph, was a victim of the 9/11 attacks.

If we can bankrupt terrorists, then less American blood will be spilled,

Mistrulli emphasized, arguing against returning any funds to terrorist regimes.

The meeting coincides with renewed tensions between the U.S. and Iran. A Memorandum of Understanding, signed in June, was intended to pave the way for peace but has stalled. Vice President JD Vance, a key negotiator, described the MOU as beneficial for Americans and an opportunity for Iran to reintegrate into the global economy.

However, the U.S. resumed military actions against Iran as negotiations faltered. Iran, along with Syria and North Korea, faces court-ordered judgments amounting to $156 billion since a congressional law allowed victims to sue state sponsors of terrorism. The court has found Iran responsible for several attacks, including having aided the hijackers involved in the 9/11 attacks. A District Court recently awarded $573 million to families of American service members affected by Iran-backed insurgencies in Iraq.

Collecting these awards remains challenging. State sponsors of terrorism rarely pay voluntarily. For partial compensation, Congress established the U.S. Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund, which distributes money from federal penalties and authorized sources. Despite over $10 billion paid since 2015, victims receive only a fraction of what courts have awarded.

Aryeh Portnoy, an attorney representing terrorism victims, cited limited enforcement and funding as major hurdles.

There are opportunities for the government and Congress to fulfill the promises made when allowing victims to pursue these cases,

Portnoy stated. Iran remains a frequent defendant in state-sponsored terrorism cases, often accused of backing groups responsible for various attacks.

Efforts to seek comments from the Iranian Embassy were not successful.