Ted Cruz Introduces SEVER Act to Bar Iranian Officials from the U.S

U.S Senator Ted Cruz (R), joined by fellow Republicans and Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, has introduced the Strengthening Entry Visa Enforcement and Restrictions (SEVER) Act of 2025. The Bill aims to prohibit certain Iranian officials from entering the United States as representatives to the United Nations.

The legislation specifically targets individuals sanctioned for supporting or being appointed by the Iranian regime's Supreme Leader's Office.

Cruz commented that the measure is necessary to safeguard Americans from threats posed by Tehran's leadership.

"If you are a crony of the Ayatollah who has been sanctioned by the U.S., it means that you pose a threat to the safety and security of Americans, and you should not be allowed on American soil, let alone to engage in diplomacy at the United Nations General Assembly," Cruz affirmed in a statement.

Other Senators echoed that sentiment. Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) described Iran's government as a "terrorist regime" with "the blood of thousands of Americans on its hands."

Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) argued that the U.S. cannot give tge regime "a foothold in our homeland" as it pursues nuclear ambitions.

Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) said the bill closes "dangerous loopholes in our visa and border security system."

Companion legislation is being introduced in the House by Rep. Claudia Tenny (R-NY), who emphasized that no official of the Iranian regime should be permitted to "spread propaganda or legitimize tyranny" on U.S. soil.

The SEVER Act follows Cruz's longstanding efforts to counter Iran's influence, including supporting military actions and sanctions targeting the regime's nuclear infrastructure.