6/24/2025 Iran/Israel (International Christian Concern) — During the conflict between Israel and Iran, Christians in both countries have lived in fear and uncertainty. 

In Iran, which is No. 9 on Open Doors’ World Watch List, Christians are often seen as a threat to the state. Many believers are serving prison sentences for “acting against national security by connecting with Zionist Christian organizations.” Despite this, Iran is home to the world’s fastest-growing church. 

During the recent attacks from Israel, Iranian Christians are even more at risk for persecution, as they are more likely to be suspected of espionage. According to a believer who stayed in Tehran during the strikes, the government is listening to phone calls and arresting citizens. One man was reportedly executed on Sunday after being accused of spying for Israel.  

“The Iranian government is now arresting anyone caught taking or sharing photos and videos with news outlets,” said Morteza, an Iranian Christian. “Christians are especially vulnerable, as they risk being accused of espionage and deemed a threat to national security. If their faith is discovered, the consequences are far worse.”  

Civilians in both countries were killed, even after a fragile ceasefire had been reportedly brokered.  

A pastor who fled Iran years ago due to persecution asked Christians to pray for an end to the conflict, saying, “People are abandoning their homes and belongings, fleeing big cities without knowing if or when they’ll return. Please pray that, despite fear and differing opinions, people would remain united and support one another.”  

Hormoz Shariat, president and founder of Christian broadcast platform Iran Alive Ministries, told Christianity Today that he is concerned for the Christians in Iran, saying many of them are “baby Christians.” He encouraged believers to represent Christ during these trying times and to love their neighbors.

A believer in Israel named Makarios said the only way through the dark times is to pray and hope. 

“We are praying. We are praying day and night. We never stop praying,” he said. “Our only hope is Jesus. Hope is not something. Hope is someone, and that someone is Christ Jesus.” 

To read more news stories, visit the ICC Newsroom. For interviews, please email press@persecution.org.