Christian Detained on Christmas Eve

Esmaeil Narimanpour* is an Iranian believer who has faced repeated detentions because of his faith in Christ. In April 2021, he was detained along with three others and tortured by the authorities. Two days later, due to the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, these four Christians were released on the condition that they would agree to return to custody when summoned (read more). Although they were eventually cleared of any criminal offence in November of that same year, they were ordered to take "re-education" classes about Islam.

On Christmas Eve of 2023, Esmaeil was again apprehended by security forces. During this most recent arrest, his home in Dezful was thoroughly searched, and Christian books were confiscated, even though no warrant had been issued. The next day, Esmaeil was allowed to make a short phone call to his family. While conversing with his loved ones, Esmaeil explained that he was being held in Ahvaz, a city located 150 kilometres south of Dezful. When his wife and brother attempted to follow up on the case, they ended up being detained and questioned for several hours as well. At least three other Christians were also reportedly arrested around Christmas, but no details can be released at this time.

Today, numerous Iranian Christians remain in prison because of their faith, and often they are being detained without any conviction. Such is the case for Hakop Gochumyan, who has been in Evin Prison for five months while awaiting trial. Although his hearing was scheduled for January 7th, no details have yet been announced regarding the outcome. For more information on Christian persecution in Iran, including previously posted reports and podcasts, go to our country report. (*Note: This is the spelling variation more commonly used for the transliteration of Esmaeil's name.)

Prayerfully remember Esmaeil, Hakop, and the many other Iranian followers of Jesus who are presently detained because their personal beliefs have been based on the teachings of Christianity. Ask the Lord to work by His Holy Spirit in and through the court system so that these Christians will be released and protected from further persecution by the authorities. In the meanwhile, may these believers receive many wonderful opportunities to reach out to those around them with the Gospel message of God's salvation through Christ.