Iranian Christians request prayer for Ebrahim Firouzi, who continues to be on hunger strike in prison.
On 17th July 2017, Ebrahim started a 10-day hunger strike to protest injustices inflicted on Christian believers (primarily converts) by the judicial authorities in Iran. He noted the unjust verdicts and harsh sentences given to Christians in recent months, and also drew attention to the refusal to allow Christian prisoners access to Christian literature.
In late July, the prison authorities transferred Ebrahim along with a group of other prisoners (about 20 altogether) to another section of the prison under high security with very few facilities. They have confiscated Ebrahim’s glasses and other personal items.
On the 30th July 2017, Ebrahim went on hunger strike once again, to protest these new conditions. He remains on hunger strike and his physical condition deteriorates.
Ebrahim Firouzi was arrested in Tehran on 21st August 2013. He was due for release in January 2015 after serving 10-months for “propaganda against the regime, insulting Islamic sacraments and acting against national security.” However, the Iranian authorities then brought additional charges of “acting against national security, gathering, and collusion,” sentencing him to a further 5 years’ imprisonment. Ebrahim is serving his sentence in Rajaei Shahr Prison in Karaj.
MAY BE CIRCULATED TO GENERAL MAILING LISTS, OUTSIDE ORGANISATIONS, AND QUOTED FROM FREELY IN REPORTS CITING “MIDDLE EAST CONCERN” AS THE SOURCE OF THE INFORMATION.
Prayer Points
Iranian Christians request prayer that:
a. the Lord will draw near to Ebrahim and grant peace to him and to his family
b. the Lord will strengthen Ebrahim physically and spiritually
c. the Iranian authorities will review the sentences given to Ebrahim, and that they he will be freed
d. the Iranian authorities will halt the persecution of Christians and recognise their right to freedom of religion and belief
