Iran has intensified persecution of Christians in the weeks following its ceasefire with Israel, arresting at least 21 believers, raiding house churches, and pushing anti-Christian propaganda, according to advocacy group Article 18. The arrests, which took place in Tehran, Rasht, Orumiyeh, Kermanshah, and Varamin, are part of what activists describe as a targeted effort to silence religious minorities.
The organization is currently verifying additional reports of arrests, including incidents as recent as July 10th. No official updates have been released since July 21st, raising concerns about the welfare of those detained. Many fear that detainees may face prolonged imprisonment or torture.
Christian Converts Branded as National Security Threats
Converts from Islam are at the center of the crackdown. Iranian authorities often label these individuals as national security risks. Nathan Rostampour, Persian ministry director for The Summit Church in Durham, N.C., says Christian believers are increasingly seen as “Western sympathizers,” a claim used to justify arrest and surveillance.
Underground house churches have been raided, and children from Christian families are reportedly subjected to forced Islamic indoctrination. Rostampour believes the government is using the current geopolitical tensions to tighten its grip on religious minorities and stifle dissent.
UN Experts Highlight Broad Human Rights Violations
A group of 10 UN experts noted that, since the June 13th ceasefire, Iran executed at least six individuals, including three Kurds, for alleged espionage for Israel. Although no Christians were among those executed, hundreds of ethnic and religious minorities—including Baha’is, Kurds, Balouchis, and Ahwazi Arabs—have been detained on similar accusations.
State-linked media have fueled the crackdown by portraying minority groups as traitors. The outlets have gone as far as calling them “filthy rats” and encouraging surveillance and violence. The UN also reported that 256,000 Afghans were forcibly deported in June. Critics say this reflects a pattern of systemic repression.
Supporters Undeterred Amid Intensifying Pressure
Despite growing threats, house church leaders remain steadfast. Rostampour continues to support them with prayer, counseling, and online strategic meetings. Through The Summit Church, he provides digital discipleship tools and teaching resources to sustain underground congregations.
While critics warn of increased state oppression, supporters emphasize the perseverance and spiritual resilience of Iran’s Christian community.
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At least 21 Christians arrested in Iran under ceasefire, heightened persecution
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