The U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs convened on December 31, 2024, to address the ongoing human rights abuses under the Communist Cuban regime. The meeting highlighted the severe conditions faced by political prisoners in Cuba, with testimonies detailing instances of torture and inhumane treatment.

One of the most striking accounts came from Amanda Valadari's book, which described horrific practices in Cuban prisons, including submerging prisoners in human waste, leading to infections and severe psychological trauma. Lawmakers expressed outrage over these abuses, emphasizing the need for a renewed commitment to combatting torture and supporting victims. The discussion included references to the Torture Victims Relief Act, aimed at providing assistance to those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder due to torture.

Committee members criticized past U.S. policies that delinked human rights from trade, particularly referencing the 1994 decision under President Bill Clinton. They argued that this approach has failed to improve conditions in Cuba and has instead empowered the regime. The lack of oversight from organizations like the International Red Cross, which has not been present in Cuba since 1988, was also noted as a significant concern.

The meeting concluded with a call for targeted sanctions against the Cuban government and a push for international collaboration to address human rights violations. Lawmakers stressed the importance of holding the Cuban regime accountable and ensuring that the plight of political prisoners is not overlooked. The committee's efforts aim to renew focus on exposing the cruelty of the Cuban government and advocating for the rights of its citizens.