For more than a year, Amin Ismail sat in Kobar Prison in Khartoum — one of Sudan’s harshest facilities.  

He was not there for any crime he had committed. He was there because he is the son of Pastor Ismail Azzaz, a faithful church leader who once refused to surrender church lands to government pressure, and because a powerful man in the capital desired his wife. 

This family’s story has been one of costly obedience. Pastor Azzaz fled Sudan years earlier after standing firm against attempts to bring the church under state control. He separated his children for their safety.  

When Amin returned to Khartoum in July 2025 to visit his wife, he was arrested the next day. Courts repeatedly found him innocent, yet he remained behind bars. Threats followed. Attempts were made to arrange his release only so that he could be killed outside the prison walls. 

But God is still a God who sets captives free. 

Unexpected Miracle 

In a wonderful turn of events, Amin Ismail has now been released from Kobar Prison. What human effort could not achieve, the Lord has done. The prayers of many, including the faithful intercession and advocacy of International Christian Concern (ICC) partners, have been answered. The long night of imprisonment has ended. 

From a place of safety still inside the capital, Amin himself has expressed deep gratitude: 

“I thank God for my release, and I am deeply grateful to ICC for their prayers and the help they gave,” he said. “Their support played a big role in this miracle. I know it was the Lord who opened the door, and I continue to trust Him to take me safely out of the capital. Please keep praying for me and my family.” 

The release is a clear miracle, yet the danger has not fully passed. Amin’s life remains at risk while he is still in Khartoum. Those who sought to harm him have not disappeared. The family continues to move carefully, trusting the same God who brought him out of prison to also lead him safely beyond the reach of those who wish him harm. 

Pastor Ismail Azzaz, still in exile, rejoices with trembling. His son is free from prison, but the journey to full safety is not yet complete. 

“We give thanks to the Lord for this answered prayer,” an ICC staffer said. “At the same time, we continue to lift Amin Ismail, his wife, and the entire family before the throne of grace. Pray that the Lord who opened the prison doors will also open a safe path out of the capital. Pray for protection, wisdom, and a future free from fear.” 

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