Abstract: A constraining assembly for a processing machine (1) is proposed that has a plate-shaped base (2) with at least one receiving hole (3) and at least one constraining bolt (4) for directly or indirectly constraining workpieces that are to be processed, wherein the constraining bolt (4) is placed in the receiving hole (3) in the base such that it can be removed therefrom, and wherein the base (2) has a receiving space (5) in which there is at least one actuating element (6) that can move axially, with which numerous lever elements (7) can be actuated to axially move the constraining bolt (4) in the receiving hole (3) in order to clamp and secure, or release, the constraining bolt (4). A constraining bolt (4) for a constraining assembly, as well as a processing machine (1) with such a constraining assembly, and a method for operating the constraining assembly, are also proposed.