Christians in Iran are facing a renewed wave of persecution – 43 believers have been arrested across 21 cities since 25 June, when the ceasefire with Israel came into effect.
Christian persecution charity Article 18 reports that although the exact charges facing those arrested in places including Tehran, Rasht, Orumiyeh, Kermanshah and Varamin have not been made public, some of the cases involve merely the possession of Bibles.
Others are connected to a newly proposed law that threatens severe punishments for alleged collaboration with so-called ‘hostile states’, such as the United States or Israel. The laws are often used against Christian converts, who are frequently branded ‘Zionists’ or accused of belonging to ‘deviant sects’, rather than being recognised as legitimate believers.
UN human rights experts have raised an alarm about the Iranian government’s treatment of minorities, warning that post-conflict periods should not be used as a cover to suppress dissent.
They highlighted disturbing reports of state media labelling entire communities, including Christians, as ‘traitors’ and calling them ‘filthy rats’.
Article 18 said conditions in Tehran’s Evin Prison have deteriorated following a recent airstrike. At least eleven Christians held there were transferred to unknown locations, raising fears of enforced disappearances. Among those affected is 43-year-old Christian convert Aida Najaflou. In a recent voice recording shared with Article 18, she described the horrific transfer of more than 60 female prisoners to Qarchak Prison, where they are denied clean water, adequate food, and hygiene. “We are suffering…entangled and helpless,” she said.
Aida faces multiple charges, including “propaganda against the Islamic Republic” and “collusion”, for actions such as praying, baptising others, and sharing Christian content online.
The Bible has been cited in her indictment as a “prohibited book”. Some charges also relate to her support for the “Women, Life, Freedom’”movement and criticism of political figures on social media.
In past court documents, judges have openly claimed that evangelical Christianity undermines Islamic values, disrupts the family structure and aligns with Western enemies. This mindset continues to justify increasing persecution against believers in the country.
Iran is ranked ninth on the Open Doors 2025 World Watch List for Christian oppression.
(Picture Courtesy: Article 18)
