In recent years, the plight of Christians in Iran and Pakistan has garnered international attention due to escalating persecution. Reports indicate a significant increase in arrests, imprisonments, and violent attacks against individuals practicing Christianity in these regions.
Iran: A Surge in Imprisonments
According to the Center for Human Rights in Iran, the number of Christians imprisoned for their faith has surged six-fold. In 2024 alone, authorities handed down a total of 263 years in prison to 96 Christians, a stark increase from 43.5 years for 22 individuals in 2023. These arrests were primarily carried out by Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) intelligence agents, utilizing provisions in Iran’s Penal Code that impose heavy punishments for activities deemed contrary to Islamic law.
Pakistan: Escalating Violence and Legal Challenges
In Pakistan, the situation is equally dire. A 22-year-old Christian man was brutally attacked by his supervisor after refusing to convert to Islam, highlighting the persistent religious intolerance in the country. Additionally, Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy laws continue to be misused, with at least 20 Christians currently imprisoned on such charges, collectively serving more than 134 years for alleged crimes they did not commit.
Human rights organizations and religious freedom advocates are calling on the international community to address these violations. The Center for Human Rights in Iran urges governments worldwide and relevant UN bodies to hold Iranian authorities accountable. Similarly, in Pakistan, activists emphasize the need for legal reforms to protect religious minorities and prevent the misuse of blasphemy laws.
This is nothing but a call for Christians to arise all over the nation. Let’s pray for the faith of our brothers!
Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest is [indeed] plentiful, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.”
Matthew 9:37-38
Amplified Bible (AMP)
