Christian persecution charity Article 18 has reported a fresh surge of arrests targeting believers in Iran, with 43 Christians detained across 21 cities since 25th June, the day a ceasefire with Israel came into effect.
Although Iranian authorities have not disclosed the official charges, the organisartion said some cases involve the possession of Bibles. Others appear connected to a newly proposed law threatening harsh penalties for alleged collaboration with so-called "hostile states" such as the United States or Israel.
Article 18 said such laws are frequently used against Christian converts, who are often labelled "Zionists" or part of "deviant sects", rather than being recognised as legitimate Christians. Past court documents show judges describing evangelical Christianity as a threat to Islamic values and national security.
Earlier this month, UN human rights experts expressed concern that post-conflict periods are being used "as an opportunity to suppress dissent and increase repression". They cited disturbing reports of state media branding entire communitie, including Christians, as "traitors" and using dehumanising terms like "filthy rats".
Meanwhile, Article 18 has said conditions in Tehran’s Evin Prison have deteriorated following a recent airstrike. At least eleven Christians held there were transferred to unknown locations, raising fears of enforced disappearances.
Among those affected is 43-year-old Christian convert Aida Najaflou. In a recent voice recording shared with Article 18, she described the horrific transfer of more than 60 female prisoners to Qarchak Prison, where they are denied clean water, adequate food, and hygiene. “We are suffering… entangled and helpless,” she said.
Aida faces multiple charges, including "propaganda against the Islamic Republic" and "collusion", for actions such as praying, baptising others, and sharing Christian content online.
The Bible has been cited in her indictment as a "prohibited book". Some charges also relate to her support for the "Women, Life, Freedom’"movement and criticism of political figures on social media.
Iran is ranked ninth on the Open Doors 2025 World Watch List for Christian oppression.
