Recently Arrested Prisoner Succumbs to Injuries


Ezzat Hakim
Atalla Abdel-Malek
Photo: AsiaNews

We have been notified by Middle East Concern that Ezzat Hakim Atalla Abdel-Malek, one of the arrested friends of businessman/bookstore manager Sherif Ramses, passed away on March 10th. Just days prior to his passing, he was taken to hospital where he received treatment for chest pain. The extensive bruising on his body revealed the physical abuse he experienced during detainment. Unfortunately, Ezzat did not survive the injuries and, sadly, now leaves behind a grieving wife and two teenage children. Please pray that his family will experience the comforting presence of the "Prince of Peace" in their lives, and also the assurance that Ezzat is a true "hero of the faith." May the reality of his present joy and eternal reward in heaven greatly encourage and sustain them. (To review the original report on the arrest of these Christian businessmen, please click here.)

  • Country Information

    Population
    7,252,573 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Berber and Arab (97), other (3)

    Religion (%)
    Muslim (96.6), Christian (2.7), Buddhist (0.3), Other (0.2) unafilliated (0.2)

    Leader
    Chairman, Presidential Council, Mohammed Al Menfi (2021)

    Government type
    In transition

    Legal system
    Libya's post-revolution legal system is in flux and driven by state and non-state entities

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for Libya

    Pray that converts to Christianity will stand firm, despite the threats of suffering and death.

    Pray that strong and effective Christian resources, including Bibles and other literature, will be available in Libya.

    Pray that Libyan Christians will have a strong desire to lead others to faith in the Lord.

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Libya News

  • Imprisonment for Leaving Islam
    A dark hall in a prison
      

    Over three months ago, at least ten Libyan Christians were arrested for converting from Islam to Christianity. Two other believers, one from Nigeria and one from Pakistan, have also been arrested because of their association with these Libyan converts. All twelve arrested believers are being held on charges of proselytism (considered "instigating division" by governing officials) which carry a maximum sentence of death.

    Read more...

  • Christian Convert Sentenced to Death for Apostasy
    Sillhouette of a man looking through a window at a city

    A Libyan appeals court has sentenced a young man to death for converting to Christianity, despite there being no official apostasy laws in the country. The name of the Christian convert, who came to faith in Jesus four years ago, has been withheld for his protection. Though the young believer has faced pressure to recant his belief in Jesus, he refuses to forsake his Christian faith.

    Read more...

  • Threats in the Midst of Renewed Church Growth
    Ruins of Basilica of Justinian
    Christianity was once a predominant influence in Libya, as seen in the Basilica of Justinian.
    Photo: Wikipedia / Hakeem.gadi

    Once an active centre of Christianity during the days of the early church, Libya is now known as an epicentre of persecution that's so extreme, there are few believers today remaining in the country. According to some reports, however, the number of Christ-followers is again starting to grow, despite increasing opposition from governmental leaders and families. For more information, go to our country report.

    Read more...

  • Warnings Against Christmas Celebrations
    Mosque in Ghadames - Photo: Wikipedia / Franzfoto
    Islam is the official religion of Libya.
    Photo: Wikipedia / Franzfoto (cc)

    A recent government campaign against the celebration of Christmas is yet another demonstration of anti-Christian activity orchestrated by the authorities in the North African nation of Libya. A movement to confiscate Christmas decorations from stores was lauded by governing officials on the national news agency. In one city, local police shut down all stores that were selling the seasonal decorations.

    Read more...

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