Bipartisan backlash erupted in Congress over President Trump's decision to ease oil sanctions on Russia and Iran, warning the moves could funnel billions of dollars to U.S. adversaries. The administration acted to stabilize global energy markets after disruptions from the Iran war, but critics argue it undermines years of pressure on both nations. Lawmakers fear the waivers, allowing shipments of 140 million Iranian barrels and resuming Russian exports, will fund Putin's war and Tehran's regional ambitions, potentially reversing sanctions gains.

Senator Jack Reed called the Iranian waiver 'reckless,' estimating it could hand Tehran up to $14 billion. Critics like Senator Jerry Moran contend the waivers signal desperation and reinforce Iran's 'Strait of Hormuz hostage' strategy, enriching enemies while consumers see little relief. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the waivers as temporary, claiming they move oil 'from an illicit market to an open market' for better oversight, though he acknowledged the profit boost was 'grossly overstated'.

Republicans like Senator John Kennedy expressed discomfort but deferred to the White House, while Democrats see the policy as reactive and poorly coordinated, risking a financial windfall for adversaries at a pivotal moment.