Over $573+ Million Awarded in Iran Terror Lawsuit

News Release from AWKO, Jun 10, 2025

Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz (AWKO) is proud to announce a historic legal victory for American servicemembers and their families. On May 30, 2025, a federal court in Washington, D.C., awarded over $573+ million in total damages to victims and families affected by terrorist attacks in Iraq that were enabled by Iran’s support for extremist groups.

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What Is This Case About?

Between 2003 and 2015, hundreds of Americans were killed or seriously injured in Iraq by terrorist attacks. The court found that Iran’s government and military provided weapons, training, and funding to groups like Al Qaeda in Iraq and other militias, directly enabling these tragic attacks. AWKO represents 412 victims and their families in a lawsuit under a special U.S. law that allows Americans to seek justice and compensation from countries that sponsor terrorism.

How Did the Court Reach Its Decision?

Iran did not respond to the lawsuit, so the court held a two-day hearing where seven “bellwether” plaintiffs—either people who were injured or families of those killed—shared their stories and evidence. Experts in military intelligence and medicine explained how Iran’s support made these attacks possible, and how the injuries continue to affect the victims and their families every day.

The Human Stories Behind the Judgment

This case is about real people whose lives were forever changed:

• Corporal Jonathan Spears was killed by a sniper at just 21 years old. His death devastated his family, leading to years of grief, depression, and even the tragic suicide of his mother.
• Sergeant Daniel Varnado died when his vehicle hit a roadside bomb. His wife and young son have faced emotional and financial hardship ever since.
• Specialist Lance Gieselmann survived a massive explosion but lost his leg, suffered spinal injury, and lives with daily pain and disability. His wife is now his full-time caregiver.
• Sergeant Richard Ford was badly injured by a bomb, leading to brain injury, chronic pain, and severe PTSD.
• Specialist Michael Anderson, Private Timothy Pope Jr., and Lance Corporal Kevin Rumley all suffered life-altering injuries, from burns and shrapnel wounds to traumatic brain injuries and psychological trauma. Some struggled for years with addiction and depression as they tried to rebuild their lives.

Family members, too, shared how the loss or injury of a loved one rippled through their lives—causing mental health struggles, financial difficulties, and a sense of loss that never goes away.

Why Does This Matter?

This judgment is about more than money. It is a public recognition of the suffering endured by American families and a clear message that those who support terrorism will be held accountable. The court’s decision also allows these families to seek payment from the U.S. Victims of State-Sponsored Terrorism Fund, which provides financial relief from assets seized from countries like Iran.

What Happens Next?

The court’s order is final for these seven bellwether plaintiffs, allowing them to move forward and begin the process of healing and rebuilding. The process will continue for hundreds of other families represented in this case, and the judgment sets a powerful precedent for future cases.

This judgment is a crucial step toward accountability and recognition for the immense suffering of our veterans. We remain steadfast in our mission to bring justice to every family affected by state-sponsored terrorism and are honored to represent our nation’s heroes. –Caitlyn Miller

AWKO: Standing Up for Victims

AWKO is honored to have helped bring this case to a successful conclusion. Our team worked tirelessly to gather evidence, present expert testimony, and ensure that every detail of our clients’ suffering was recognized by the court. We are committed to continuing the fight for all remaining victims and their families.

“From day one, AWKO treated me with dignity and respect. They didn’t ask me to relive my trauma or prove my worth — they just got to work, advocating on my behalf and walking me through the process step by step,” said Kevin Rumley, U.S. military veteran and AWKO client. “They didn’t just help me file a claim — they helped me reclaim my story.”

If You or Your Family Has Been Affected

If you or someone you love has been harmed by terrorism or state-sponsored violence, you have rights under U.S. law. AWKO is here to help you understand your options and pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact AWKO:

Phone: (844) 794-7402
Email Us

Together, we honor the sacrifice of American families and ensure that those responsible for their suffering are brought to justice.

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