US Congress backs new Russia sanctions bill

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 has cleared both chambers of the U.S. Congress, marking a significant step in the expansion of sanctions policy targeting Moscow and Tehran. The House of Representatives approved the bill on Sept. 16, 2026, by a vote of 262–159, following earlier action in the Senate.

The Senate had passed the legislation the previous month with an 86–11 vote, indicating substantial bipartisan backing in the upper chamber. With approvals in both the House and Senate, the measure has completed its congressional passage and proceeds to the president for consideration.

The bill’s title signals a dual focus on Russia and Iran, positioning the legislation within ongoing U.S. efforts to use economic tools against both countries. Its advancement underscores continued congressional support for sanctions as a central element of U.S. foreign policy.

In the House, the 262–159 tally reflects a coalition of members supporting tougher measures, offset by a sizable bloc of lawmakers opposed to the package. While the precise breakdown by party is not detailed in the available reports, the margin indicates backing that extends beyond a single party.

The Senate’s 86–11 result shows even broader support in that chamber, with only a small group voting against the bill. The strong margin suggests that, at least in the Senate, there is wide agreement on the need to update or intensify sanctions tools related to Russia and Iran.

Taken together, the votes highlight that, although there is debate over the scope and impact of the legislation, a clear majority in both chambers favored moving the bill forward. The tallies also suggest that any subsequent effort to modify the package would need to address concerns raised by the minority of opposing lawmakers.

By approving the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, Congress has positioned the United States to adjust its sanctions architecture toward the two countries once the bill is acted on by the president. The measure is framed as part of a broader strategy to increase economic pressure, particularly in areas tied to energy and financial activities.

The legislation includes new sanctions and tariff-related authorities, signaling congressional interest in giving the executive branch additional tools that can be deployed within existing sanctions regimes. The specific use of these authorities will depend on subsequent executive decisions and implementing actions.

Business groups and policymakers are expected to continue watching how any new powers are applied, given potential implications for trade flows and international economic relationships. For now, the immediate development is the completion of the bill’s journey through Congress and its arrival on the president’s desk.