Convicted of setting up house churches
The Iranian pastor was arrested along with three Azerbaijani Christians in June 2016. In June 2017, they were each sentenced to 10 years in prison for "acting against national security by forming and establishing illegal house churches." The Azerbaijanis had left Iran during the process and abandoned bail.
Naser was taken to Evin Prison in January 2018 after his sentence was upheld by the Court of Appeal. During his nearly 2000 days in prison, Nasar repeatedly requested a retrial or parole, which was consistently denied.
His release now, as part of the pardon of several people, came as a surprise, according to Danish European Mission partner Middle East Concern.
Concerns after shooting and fire in prison
There have been concerns for the Christians detained in Evin during a fire during recent protests in the country, with women in particular demonstrating. During the fire, gunshots and explosions could be heard in the prison and state media reports that eight prisoners were killed.
None of the 30 or so Christian prisoners of conscience were injured, but a family member says:
"It was a terrible night for us. We had no idea what was happening. When we finally had a chance to talk to our loved one, we heard the sound of gunshots on the phone and then we were disconnected. We cried until the next morning."
It was a relief that the Christian prisoners were able to call their families afterwards and tell them that they were okay.
Please pray
- Thank God for Naser's unexpected release.
- That he would quickly get used to life outside prison.
- That Christians and other prisoners still unjustly detained on false political charges will be acquitted.
