FARDIS, Iran — An Iranian Christian convert received notice to begin his 10-month prison sentence after a court on June 26 rejected his appeal of a charge of “propaganda against the Islamic Republic.”
Hamed Ashoori, 31, was arrested Feb. 23, 2019, and his home raided. Bibles, Christian literature and computer hard drives were confiscated. After his arrest, Ashoori was kept 12 days in a prison in Karaj, spending 10 days in solitary confinement, according a report by international Christian aid agency Barnabas Fund.
Ashoori was put into a “reeducation” program with an Islamic cleric. Generally, an offer to withdraw all charges is given if an individual attends these sessions. Barnabas Fund reported that Ashoori went to four sessions, and when he refused more, court proceedings initiated.
During proceedings, he was offered money to inform on other Christians and was assaulted when he refused.
At least 20 Christians are in prison or in enforced internal exile in Iran for practicing their faith, Barnabas Fund reported.
Iran is No. 8 on Open Doors’ 2021 World Watch List of places most difficult to be a Christian.
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