On Wednesday, July 29th, 2026, President Trump issued a new demand for lawmakers to amend the Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 to grant him authority to impose tariffs on Iran, not just sanctions. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said, “I’d like them to add Iran as tariffs, not just as sanctions, I think that’s important, that’s what Lindsey wanted.”

The bipartisan bill, which passed the Senate on Tuesday night with an 86-12 vote, authorizes the president to apply tariffs of up to 100 percent on the top five purchasers of Russian energy and military equipment or countries facilitating Russian sanctions evasion. It primarily targets China, India, and Southeast Asian nations, and imposes a 500 percent tariff on Russian imports to the U.S.

While the legislation enjoys broad support, Democrats have expressed concerns about the expansive tariff powers it grants the president. Some worry these authorities could complicate the bill’s passage in the House. However, after discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who urged passage without changes, some senators with reservations voted in favor.

Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), a leading co-sponsor, stated she is determined to convince House colleagues to support the bill. Senators also responded to a last-minute request from Trump following the death of Senator Graham by including sanctions on Iran, extending the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 for five more years. Notably, U.S. trade with Iran remains minimal, with imports totaling only $1.4 million in 2025.

The bill’s progress now faces potential hurdles as it moves to the House, where debates over tariff authorities and the inclusion of Iran remain active.

Sources