Rights activists warn new Iranian law could threaten Christians
Iranian Christian activists say a proposed anti-espionage law could restrict Christians’ religious contacts.
A global coalition of Iranian Christian activists has warned of growing risks to believers from a new anti-espionage bill. Rights advocates say the wording of the proposed law could pave the way for further persecution of the country’s Christian community, Christian Today reports.
The initiative is officially aimed at combating infiltration by foreign intelligence services, governments or organizations. Activists, however, say vague legal language could allow officials to use the provisions against peaceful Christians.
The bill could put virtually any contact between believers and fellow Christians abroad at risk. Receiving theological education from overseas, sending letters to relatives, or even praying together online could fall under the ban. Representatives of the group stress that the law effectively moves ordinary religious contacts into the realm of national security.
Iranian authorities have previously designated several Persian-language Christian television channels as hostile. Officials introduced harsh penalties for watching these religious broadcasts. Iran currently ranks tenth on Open Doors’ list of the most difficult countries in the world to live as a Christian.
The coalition of Christian activists called on the international community to defend religious freedom in Iran. The authors of the appeal urged international bodies to influence the legislative process in order to protect Christian families.
As the UOJ reported, arrests of Christians in Iran have increased sixfold.
