Iranian Christians temporarily released from prison

The pastor of a church in Esfahan, and nine imprisoned Christians from the city were freed on 30 April and 1 May, pending their recall at a future date.

According to the Farsi Christian News Network (FCNN), their family had to put up a lot of money as a guarantee. In addition, new charges were filed against the accused.

Pastor Hekmat Salimi and nine others were freed after their families paid $50,000 for Salimi, Meysam Hojati and Shahnaz Zarifi, and $30,000 for others.

FCNN said these "security payments" are rarely returned, and then only after very long and protracted negotiations.

The Islamic Republic is "tightening its oppressive grip" against the Christian community in Isfahan, the news agency said.

This action has caused "despair," especially since the official Islamic media's reports of the "discovery" of a truck load of Bibles on its way to the city.

According to FCNN, discovery of so many Bibles destined for the city appears to have unnerved the Islamic authorities.

Salimi was reportedly arrested in the early hours of February 22 at his home. On the same day, a number of new converts from Islam were also rounded up.

Christian sources have told FCNN that along with the usual "spurious" charges, this time there are also more "innovative" ones.

Salimi is now accused of propagating Christianity, unlawful publication of The Bible, and performing baptism.

Zarifi has been accused of spreading Christianity, participation in Christian conferences and "being in contact with Pastor Reza Safa".

FCNN said Safa is a well known Christian personality amongst Iranians. This is the first time that someone has been officially charged with having contact with a Christian missionary outside of Iran's official control.

Hojati has not only been accused of organising house churches in the city, and Bible distribution, but also of "having contact with The Baha'i's."

FCNN said many Muslims have previously had this charge levelled against them, but this is the first time a Christian has been accused.

The other seven Christians are reportedly charged with "crimes" of propagating Christianity, having contact with House Churches, and "propaganda against the Islamic Regime."