At least twelve Christians have been arrested by intelligence agents in a coordinated operation on June 30th and July 1st. Besides the arrests, dozens of others were ordered to provide contact details and told they would be summoned for further questioning.
The first raid happened at a home located in the city of Tehran where about 30 Christians were gathered. While recording the raid, the agents were polite and separated the men from the women. But later, when the cameras were off, they treated the Christians harshly. The agents came prepared with arrest warrants for six of those in attendance who were then handcuffed, blindfolded, and taken away.
Those arrested were taken to their residences in Tehran and Karaj where they were searched for Bibles and other Christian materials. However, as three of the people listed on the warrant were not present at the meeting, these individuals were arrested later when agents went to their homes. That same night, three converts in Malayar were ordered to report to the Revolutionary Guard office the next day. Yet, before they had a chance to turn themselves in the following morning, they were arrested.
The three from Malayar have all been released after posting bail. The fates of the other nine Iranians are unknown, though at least two were attempting to raise bail at last report. It is believed that the raids were coordinated with the help of an informant who had infiltrated the church, gaining their trust. For more on the persecution of Christians in Iran, go to our online country report.
Prayerfully remember all the believers who were recently arrested, as well as those interrogated for practising Christianity. Also uphold their concerned families and fellow church members. Continue to pray for the many others who are being imprisoned in Iran due to their faith in Jesus Christ. May they be refreshed, sustained, comforted and encouraged as they trust in God for their vindication and deliverance. In addition, intercede for the person who had infiltrated the church with wrong intent, asking the Lord to use the messages of God's Word that were heard during the services to bring about sincere repentance and salvation.
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