At least ten Christians have been arrested in Iran’s south-western province of Fars, supposedly for leading anti-government protests.
Fars province has experienced a large degree of unrest as large-scale protests that originated in the capital Tehran on 28 December have swept across the country.
The Iranian authorities have blamed the protests, which are largely driven by high inflation and economic pressures, on foreign “enemies”.
Shiraz, the provincial capital of Fars [Image credit: آرش (Arche) / Wikipedia]
As well as being treated with suspicion and hostility as apostates from Islam, Farsi (Persian)-speaking Christians in Iran are considered enemies of the state and are often charged with national security offences.
“Whilst the initial triggers were economic, the protests have rapidly evolved into a broader political crisis,” explained Barnabas Aid’s projects manager with responsibility for Iran.
“Our partners on the ground report a disturbing trend,” he continued, “that the Iranian government is increasingly using the Christian minority as a scapegoat, accusing believers of inciting and leading these demonstrations.”
Read more: What is it like to live as a Christian in Iran?
Barnabas Aid contacts confirmed the ten arrests in three locations of Fars province from 4 January onwards. Those arrested are being charged with acting against national security.
“We have seen a coordinated effort to link the church to the economic riots,” said “M”, a believer in the region. “One of our brothers was arrested simply because he was seen talking to a group of shopkeepers.
“The government is desperate to find a leader for this leaderless movement, and they find the Christians to be an easy target because of our international connections. Please pray, as we expect more arrests in the coming nights.”
“The atmosphere is one of intense fear,” said “H”, the pastor of an unofficial church. “The authorities are not just looking for protesters; they are looking for targets they can use to tell a story of foreign interference.
“They have raided several homes of believers, claiming we are the ones providing the ‘ideological fuel’ for the street marches. Our people are staying indoors, but the door-to-door searches are relentless.”
How you can pray
Intercede for these ten believers, and any others arrested on false national security charges. Pray for the community of Christian converts who are facing heightened scrutiny at this time. Ask for a resolution to Iran’s economic and political difficulties that leads to greater peace and prosperity for our brothers and sisters in Christ, and for all the people of Iran.
