Ernst, Rosen Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Counter Space Threats Posed by Iran

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), co-chairs of the Abraham Accords Caucus, introduced legislation to counter space threats posed by Iran and its proxies.

The bipartisan Space Technology and Regional Security (STARS) Act would build on the Abraham Accords by requiring the Department of Defense (DoD) to develop a strategy and data-sharing agreement to protect allies and partners in the Middle East from hostile Iranian space activities. This improved space and satellite security coordination would enhance U.S. space situational awareness, defend against threats from adversaries, and deepen space cooperation with Israel and other allies in the Middle East.

“The next step to ending Iranian aggression is by deepening the United States’ international space partnerships to improve awareness of the Middle East,” said Senator Ernst. “After the success of the DEFEND Act and MARITIME Act in intercepting Iran-backed attacks at land and sea, the STARS Act will adapt this model to space and use 21st Century technology to deter Iran.”

“As Iran and its terrorist proxies escalate their aggression against Israel and continue to destabilize the Middle East, it’s critical that we work with our allies in the region to bolster collaboration in all areas of defense,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to strengthen space and satellite security cooperation with our allies and partners in the Middle East, and improve collective security to address urgent threats from Iran.”

Background:

Senators Ernst and Rosen are two of the founding members and co-chairs of the bipartisan Senate Abraham Accords Caucus, and they have led efforts to deepen security cooperation between the U.S. and our partners and allies in the Middle East to defend against Iran’s aggression.

Last year, their bipartisan MARITIME Act to require DoD to work with partners in the Middle East to counter maritime threats posed by Iran and other violent organizations was signed into law.

Last Congress, their bipartisan DEFEND Act to establish an air and missile defense architecture with Israel and other Middle East allies was signed into law.

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