Dozens of Christian converts were arrested in Iran

Following the recent raid conducted by security and intelligence forces, a total of 53 individuals were apprehended in various cities, including Tehran, Karaj, Aligudarz, Rasht, and Urmia. 

Still further information regarding the charges and motives behind the arrests of these Christian citizens remains scarce. 

It is worth noting that numerous Farsi-language churches have been forcibly shut down by the Islamic government, and for decades, security officers have targeted Christians by raiding their homes and house churches, confiscating Bibles and other Christian literature.

 The intensified pressure and attacks on Christian households coincide with the government's heightened security measures leading up to the anniversary of Mehsa (Zhina) Amini's death and the beginning of the national uprising. 

Recent reports have highlighted clashes between security forces and citizens, as well as the resurgence of Islamic Guidance patrol vans in various cities. 

Iranian Christians, like their fellow citizens, actively participated in the protests, resulting in threats, arrests, and oppression. 

According to the annual report released by the Open Doors organization, in collaboration with three other Christian organizations, at least five converts who were arrested during the protests due to their Christian faith have been charged with "apostasy." Shockingly, the number of arrests in 2022 has doubled compared to the previous year, soaring from 59 to 134. 

As of the end of 2022, a minimum of 17 Christians are imprisoned on charges such as "acting against national security" and "propaganda against the regime."

_{Source: Article 18}