Iran: Pastor Abedini in solitary confinement

Pastor Saeed Abedini with his family (Photo: ACLJ via YouTube)

There are reports that imprisoned Pastor Saeed Abedini has been placed in solitary confinement in an Iranian prison.

Christians around the world have been praying for the release of the pastor, who has dual US-Iranian nationality.

Pastor Abedini, a convert to Christianity, was arrested last September while visiting family in Iran and was sentenced to eight years in prison on 27 January for "actions against the national security of Iran" and "planting house churches that are intended to undermine national security".

He was sent to Evin Prison, where he has reportedly suffered beatings and been denied medical treatment by prison authorities.

Mohabat News reports that Pastor Abedini and nine other prisoners were placed in solitary confinement after taking part in a peaceful protest over the mistreatment of inmates in the prison.

Pastor Abedini also signed a petition criticising the lack of medical care for prisoners and the mistreatment of their families during visits.  Prison authorities are reportedly no longer allowing family members to visit the pastor.

Chief Executive of Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Mervyn Thomas, said he was deeply concerned that Pastor Abedini is being held in solitary confinement despite urgently needing medical attention.

He raised concerns about another imprisoned pastor, Behnam Irani, imprisoned in similar conditions without access to medical treatment.

"We urge the Iranian authorities to provide immediate medical care for Pastor Abedini and Pastor Irani, and to release them and all other prisoners who in reality are being held on account of their faith," he said.

"The freedom to profess one's faith is protected in the Iranian constitution as well as in various international treaties to which Iran is signatory, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

"We therefore call on Iran to fulfil its legal obligations and uphold this right for all of its citizens."

Newsletter Stay up to date with Christian Today
News
Who represents you and who do you represent?
Who represents you and who do you represent?

Scripture repeatedly shows that God works through representatives, and the spiritual consequences of their actions often extend far beyond their individual lives.

‘Faith covenant’ has strengthened cooperation with local authorities, report finds
‘Faith covenant’ has strengthened cooperation with local authorities, report finds

A “Faith Covenant” 10 years in the making has played a significant role in strengthening cooperation between faith communities and public authorities across the UK, particularly during times of crisis, an independent evaluation has concluded.

Report warns of continued anti-Christian hostility across Europe during April
Report warns of continued anti-Christian hostility across Europe during April

There were dozens of anti-Christian incidents across Europe in April, including violent attacks during Easter services, church vandalism, desecrations, arson cases, and assaults on clergy and worshippers.

The Bohemian queen who was a catalyst for the English Reformation
The Bohemian queen who was a catalyst for the English Reformation

11 May 2026 is the 660th anniversary of the birth of Anne of Bohemia, wife of King Richard II of England, who played an important role in the history of the English Bible. This is the story …