The U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs convened on April 8, 2025, to discuss the urgent need for a return to maximum pressure on Iran, focusing on the regime's malign activities and its impact on regional stability. A key highlight of the meeting was the emphasis on the critical relationships the U.S. has built with Gulf partners, which played a vital role in defending Israel during recent Iranian missile attacks. CENTCOM officials noted that years of investment in these partnerships resulted in effective air defense, saving countless lives.

The discussion also turned to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its innovative use of cryptocurrency to evade sanctions. Witnesses revealed that Iran has conducted approximately $8 billion in cryptocurrency transactions, allowing it to bypass financial oversight and move funds more discreetly. This tactic raises concerns about the potential for other rogue states to adopt similar strategies. Lawmakers called for stronger sanctions enforcement and a coordinated digital assets framework among allies to combat these emerging threats.

Representative Stanton highlighted Iran's extensive network of proxies, which have perpetuated chaos in the Middle East for decades. He pointed out the human cost of Iran's actions, referencing the tragic loss of 1,300 Israeli lives in a recent Hamas attack, as well as the risks posed to American troops by Iranian-backed militias. Despite these challenges, there was a consensus among committee members that Iran's influence is beginning to wane, signaling a potential shift in the regional power dynamics.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to counter Iran's destabilizing activities, with lawmakers advocating for a robust response to protect U.S. interests and allies in the region.