To the appropriate United States authorities,

A senior Iranian official sanctioned by the United States for violent repression has family members connected to institutions in America. We are asking U.S. authorities to review whether this complies with existing sanctions and immigration laws.

We, the undersigned, respectfully request a formal review of the immigration status and compliance with U.S. sanctions laws of Aneseh Ardeshir Larijani, who has been publicly identified as a close family member of Ali Larijani, a senior official of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), Ali Larijani has been sanctioned for his role in coordinating the Iranian government's response to nationwide protests and for publicly calling for the use of force against peaceful demonstrators.

Source:
U.S. Department of the Treasury press release
https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sb0364

These sanctions were announced as part of broader actions targeting officials involved in violent repression of Iranian citizens who were demonstrating for basic freedoms and economic rights.

Public reporting and online records have indicated that Aneseh Ardeshir Larijani may be associated with academic and research institutions in the United States, including institutions in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Some reports and social media posts suggest connections to research programs and institutions such as the University of Pittsburgh medical research system and Duquesne University’s School of Pharmacy.

Because of the seriousness of the sanctions imposed on Ali Larijani and the documented role he has played in the Iranian government's crackdown on protests, it is reasonable to request a transparent review to determine whether any U.S. immigration, sanctions, or national security regulations apply.

Concerns about family members of sanctioned Iranian officials residing or working in the United States have also been raised by U.S. lawmakers. In January 2026, U.S. Representative Buddy Carter sent a letter to Emory University and the Georgia Composite Medical Board regarding Fatemeh Ardeshir-Larijani, citing her direct familial connection to Ali Larijani and raising concerns about individuals connected to senior Iranian regime officials working in American institutions.

Source:
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16273

Full letter:
https://buddycarter.house.gov/uploadedfiles/1.21.26_emory_iran_letter_copy.pdf

The purpose of this petition is not to make accusations against any individual, but to request that the appropriate authorities review the matter to ensure that U.S. sanctions laws and immigration policies are applied consistently and transparently.

We call on the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Department of Homeland Security, and Department of State to review this case.

Specifically, we respectfully request:

• A transparent review under applicable immigration and sanctions frameworks
• Enforcement of existing U.S. sanctions and immigration laws
• Determination of whether any individuals residing in the United States have materially supported or benefited from sanctioned officials or entities
• Public accountability consistent with due process and U.S. legal standards

The United States has long stood for human rights, transparency, and the rule of law. It is important that the country not serve as a safe haven for individuals connected to serious human rights abuses or sanctioned regimes.

We respectfully urge the appropriate authorities to review this matter carefully and ensure that U.S. laws and policies are applied consistently.

Sincerely,
The Undersigned