Christian Convert Loses Appeals Court Hearing
By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News
(Worthy News) – Iranian Christians have urged prayers for a Christian convert after an appeals court upheld his 10-month prison sentence for “propaganda against the regime,” Worthy News learned.
The man, named only as Hamed, was already arrested in February 2019 in Karaj in February, according to Christians.
Security agents raided his home, confiscating Bibles, Christian literature, and a computer, according to Christians familiar with the situation.
Hamed was detained for twelve days – 10 of which were in solitary confinement, rights groups, said. “During interrogation, he was offered money to become an informant and was physically assaulted when he refused,” said advocacy group Middle East Concern.
Rights group Article Eighteen said Hamed was forced to undergo Islamic “re-education” classes, but after four sessions, refused to attend more. Court proceedings were initiated against him.
On March 7, 2021, Hamed was summoned to Karaj Revolutionary Court to answer charges of “propaganda against the regime.” The prison sentence was initially announced on April 12, followed by an appeals hearing.
Hamed was given ten days to present himself to Karaj Central Prison to begin his sentence.
Amid the turmoil, Iranian Christians requested prayer that the “Lord will strengthen and encourage Hamed as he waits to receive a summons to prison.”
They added that one day “Iranian authorities will stop violating international law by persecuting religious minorities peacefully practising their faith.” It comes amid a broader crackdown on devoted Christians in the heavily Islamic nation, Worthy News monitored.
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