Christians in Turkey are facing mounting hostility, according to the Association of Protestant Churches’ latest Human Rights Violation Report.

The report highlights a surge in hate crimes, state pressure, and restrictions on both local and foreign believers.

It noted a rise in both “written and oral hate speech” compared with previous years.

Among the most serious incidents was an armed attack on the Salvation Church Association building in Istanbul on New Year’s Eve. The assailant shouted, “We will not allow you to brainwash our Muslim youth! Oh infidels, you will be defeated and swept up into hell.”

Other churches have been targeted with gunfire, vandalism, and threats.

Another case involved a Christian teacher who lost her job without explanation and was later warned to “be careful which associations you attend and the foreigners you make friends with.”

Foreign believers have also been affected, with authorities issuing hundreds of entry bans or residence visa refusals.

“This situation has exposed a huge humanitarian problem,” the report added.

Protestant churches, numbering just over 200 nationwide, reportedly also face challenges in renting worship space, obtaining legal recognition, and training clergy.

Officials have denied permission for Christian education, leaving churches to rely on seminars, apprenticeships, or overseas training.