Iran: Pastor Abedini in solitary confinement

Pastor Saeed Abedini with his family (Photo: ACLJ via YouTube)

There are reports that imprisoned Pastor Saeed Abedini has been placed in solitary confinement in an Iranian prison.

Christians around the world have been praying for the release of the pastor, who has dual US-Iranian nationality.

Pastor Abedini, a convert to Christianity, was arrested last September while visiting family in Iran and was sentenced to eight years in prison on 27 January for "actions against the national security of Iran" and "planting house churches that are intended to undermine national security".

He was sent to Evin Prison, where he has reportedly suffered beatings and been denied medical treatment by prison authorities.

Mohabat News reports that Pastor Abedini and nine other prisoners were placed in solitary confinement after taking part in a peaceful protest over the mistreatment of inmates in the prison.

Pastor Abedini also signed a petition criticising the lack of medical care for prisoners and the mistreatment of their families during visits.  Prison authorities are reportedly no longer allowing family members to visit the pastor.

Chief Executive of Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Mervyn Thomas, said he was deeply concerned that Pastor Abedini is being held in solitary confinement despite urgently needing medical attention.

He raised concerns about another imprisoned pastor, Behnam Irani, imprisoned in similar conditions without access to medical treatment.

"We urge the Iranian authorities to provide immediate medical care for Pastor Abedini and Pastor Irani, and to release them and all other prisoners who in reality are being held on account of their faith," he said.

"The freedom to profess one's faith is protected in the Iranian constitution as well as in various international treaties to which Iran is signatory, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

"We therefore call on Iran to fulfil its legal obligations and uphold this right for all of its citizens."

News
Burnout and isolation are common problems for Church of England clergy - report
Burnout and isolation are common problems for Church of England clergy - report

Clergy described burnout, feelings of isolation, diminished morale, and ongoing financial strain.

Evangelical Alliance updates Christian course for South Asian seekers
Evangelical Alliance updates Christian course for South Asian seekers

The Evangelical Alliance (EA) has announced the launch of a new set of resources aimed at introducing the gospel to people of South Asian heritage.

Samaritan’s Purse plane hijacked; suspect in custody
Samaritan’s Purse plane hijacked; suspect in custody

A Samaritan's Purse plane carrying aid to South Sudan was hijacked earlier this week. A suspect has been detained, and no serious injuries are being reported.

Thousands attend launch of nationwide Christmas evangelistic campaign at Royal Albert Hall
Thousands attend launch of nationwide Christmas evangelistic campaign at Royal Albert Hall

A major evangelistic outreach for the Christmas season formally got underway this week at the Royal Albert Hall.