The family of a US pastor arrested in Turkey has launched a campaign for his release.
Andrew Brunson, 48, led a Protestant church in Izmir and was jailed last week after being detained since October. His family say he was arrested on false terrorism charges after he was accused of links to US-based cleric Fetulah Gulen, who Turkey blames for the failed coup in July.
Together with his wife Norine, originally from North Carolina, Brunson has lived in Turkey for 23 years.
But on 7 October he was summoned to a local police station where he was told he faced deportation as a "threat to national security". On Friday, after 63 days of captivity, instead of being forced out the country he was charged with "membership of a terrorist organisation". A judge ordered he be jailed rather than deported.
Lawyers from the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), who are representing Brunson, say no evidence was provided to justify his arrest.
"The government of Turkey -- led by an Islamic party -- has begun increased crackdowns on Christians, and Pastor Andrew, if convicted, may face years in prison based on extremely serious -- and false -- charges," said Jordan Sekulow, executive director of the ACLJ, according to Fox News.
"We are launching a global campaign to call attention to his plight demanding that Turkey – a NATO member – release Pastor Andrew without delay," Sekulow added.
A global campaign was launched on Wednesday and more than 12,000 have already signed the petition calling for his release.
Brunson's family said in a statement: "Andrew's strong faith has always been at the center of his life and that has never been more evident than his pastorship in Turkey.
"His love and concern for the people of Turkey is unmistakable, as he has dedicated 23 years of his life serving them."
His 18-year-old daughter, Jacqueline, said her father's imprisonment was "both troubling and disturbing".
She said: "I grew up in Turkey and saw firsthand how much he loves Turkey and the Turkish people.
"He has exhibited nothing but love, mercy and grace during his time there."
She added: "The best Christmas present our family could receive this year is the release of my father."
