Faith
Iranian Christians Jailed for Their Faith
Faith Facts
- Christian converts in Iran face harsh prison terms for practicing their faith.
- Nayereh Arjaneh and two brothers began serving sentences around Christmas for their Christian beliefs.
- Iran ranks ninth globally for Christian persecution, but faith communities continue to grow.
Persecution of Christians in Iran remains severe, as believers are sentenced to prison simply for following Christ and sharing the Gospel. Around Christmas, Nayereh Arjaneh, Mahmoud Mardani-Kharaji, and Mansour Mardani-Kharaji all began serving lengthy terms for their devotion to their faith.
Arjaneh was given five years in Semnan Prison after being convicted of so-called “deviant propaganda,” which amounted to living out and manifesting her Christian beliefs.
“Nayereh has been sentenced to a total of 10 years in prison; however, under Iranian law, only the most severe sentence – five years of imprisonment in this case – is enforceable,” Article 18 shared in a statement.
Her punishment also included heavy fines, internal exile, and a travel ban, reflecting the authorities’ determination to silence Christian witness. Her husband, Qasem Esmaili, received a multi-year sentence but has not begun serving it due to medical treatment for cancer.
For Arjaneh and many other converts, gathering for worship within Iran is impossible, forcing some to seek fellowship across borders. Prior to her incarceration, she endured weeks of detention and psychological torment, including threats of execution.
Brothers Mahmoud and Mansour Mardani-Kharaji, both in their 50s, were taken to Dastgerd Prison in Isfahan. Their sentences included four years in prison, exile, fines, and a ban from participating in groups, imposed for holding Christmas gatherings and expressing their faith in Jesus Christ.
Another believer, Aida Najaflou, was granted a temporary release from Tehran’s Evin Prison due to medical concerns after a serious injury. Awaiting appeal, she faces a 17-year sentence for her Christian activities, but like others, is required to serve the longest of her sentences—10 years.
Their courage stands as a powerful reminder of the strength found in Christ and the enduring hope of the persecuted church. Despite opposition, the church in Iran continues to grow and bear witness. Let us pray for these faithful brothers and sisters and for religious liberty to shine in dark places.