Three Iranian Christian converts, including a pregnant woman, have been sentenced to a combined total of over 40 years in prison.
They were arrested in coordinated raids on their homes in the capital Tehran last autumn and held in Evin Prison. They were later released on bail before facing trial. Their sentencing reflects the ongoing crackdown on Christian converts in Iran.
Wide-ranging punishments
Narges Nasri (37) – who is pregnant with her first child – has been sentenced to 16 years’ imprisonment. This comprises ten years for ‘propaganda activities contrary to Islamic law’, five years for house church involvement, and one year for social media posts supporting the ‘Women, Life, Freedom’ movement that emerged following the death of Mahsa Amina for ‘improper’ wearing of the hijab.
Abbas Soori (48) has been given a 15-year sentence – ten years for ‘propaganda activities’ and five years for house church involvement. He had previously been arrested in 2020 and sentenced to non-custodial punishments alongside other Christians.
In addition to their sentences, both Narges and Abbas have been fined, banned from any group membership, and prohibited from residing in Tehran or leaving Iran for two years after her release.
Meanwhile, Mehran Shamloui (37), a musician, has been sentenced to ten years and eight months’ imprisonment. This breaks down to eight years for ‘propaganda activities’ and 32 months for house church membership. His musical instruments, worth around £4,250, were confiscated during his arrest. He’s also been fined.
Why are converts targeted?
The reason why converts are most vulnerable to extreme persecution in Iran is because the authorities believe they have been influenced by Western countries who want to undermine Islam and the regime. This makes them see the converts as a threat – a threat they want to stifle through tactics such as surveillance, raids on house churches, interrogations, fines and imprisonment. The approach means many Christian converts meet secretly, if at all, or leave the country altogether – and it’s why the country is ninth on the World Watch List.
Please continue to remember your Iranian family in your prayers – for those imprisoned and their families, those forced to flee, and those who bravely follow Jesus in their homes and communities despite the acute dangers it brings. Thank you.
Source: Article18
please pray
- For Narges Nasri’s health and the safety of her unborn child, and that she will receive proper care and experience God’s strength and peace
- That Abbas Soori and Mehran Shamloui will remain steadfast in their faith, encouraged by the Holy Spirit despite their harsh conditions
- Pray for protection and wisdom for Iran’s underground church, that believers will continue to worship and share their faith despite persecution.
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