04/03/2019 Iran (International Christian Concern) – Two op-eds in recent days ask the question whether Iran’s clergy are moving further away from Islamization in favor of separation of religion and state. A New York Times article argues that Iran’s clergy are making unprecedented references to nationalism. An al-Monitor article notes that Iranian conservatives are frequently withdrawing into community “safe zones” where they can display full religiosity away from the public’s eye.

Both articles mention how anti-clerical resentment is ever increasing, as Iranians view Islamic clergy as inseparable from the state’s corrupt and harsh management. This resentment has opened opportunities for the Gospel message to spread throughout Iran, as many Iranians are curious about the pre-Islamic roots of their country. They are also very interested to learn how their country features in the Bible’s Old Testament. As more and more Iranians embrace Christianity, the clergy class feels increasingly under threat and thus persecution of the church continues to grow.

Whether Iran’s clergy is truly embracing nationalism or temporarily readjusting their strategy of protecting the Islamic Republic is an answer yet to be seen. Either way, what is clear is that the clergy has and will continue to take their frustration at anti-clerical resentment out on Christians.

For interviews with Claire Evans, ICC’s Regional Manager, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: [email protected].