An international Christian advocacy organization warned that escalating tensions in Iran are increasing risks for Muslim converts to Christianity, as reports of mass protest deaths and rising military presence deepen instability in the region.
In a video message, Shawn P. Wright, president of International Christian Concern (ICC), said it has been “closely following the delicate situation in Iran during the past month.”
“Reports on the number of protesters killed vary from 7,000 to more than 30,000, depending on the source,” Wright said. He did not cite specific sources for the casualty figures.
He also noted that “a second aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, is now in the region as U.S.-Iran nuclear talks are underway.”
Wright described the moment as “a critical time for Iran and the global Church,” adding that ICC is “amping up efforts to stand with our courageous Iranian brothers and sisters.”
Christians make up less than 1 percent of Iran’s population, Wright said. While Christians of Armenian and Assyrian heritage may worship but are prohibited from converting others, he said, Muslim converts to Christianity face greater danger.
“These Muslim background believers (MBBs) are the most vulnerable,” Wright said. “They are watched, arbitrarily arrested, imprisoned, and forced to worship secretly, ‘underground.’ Meanwhile, they are often separated from their families, their children forced to study Islam.”
Wright said ICC is coordinating with “trusted and carefully vetted partners” and is preparing emergency assistance should conditions permit.
“We are preparing to respond quickly with: Emergency relief for displaced families. Food, shelter, and medical aid for persecuted believers. Discipleship and pastoral care. Care for imprisoned Christians and their families. Prayer for protection, peace, wisdom, and God’s presence amid turmoil,” Wright said.
He urged supporters to “intercede on behalf of our Iranian brothers and sisters through your prayers and support” and to “call on leaders and media outlets to report the truth,” adding: “We cannot let our brothers and sisters suffer in silence (Proverbs 31:8).”
Wright described the Church in Iran as “one of the fastest-growing in the world” and said ICC is preparing to assist if “a window opens” amid the unrest.
