Alternative Sentencing Granted
Article18 has reported that three members of the "Church of Iran" who were sentenced to five years in prison for their involvement in house-churches have been granted permission to complete the remainder of their sentences outside of prison. However, they are required to report to work at a nearby factory on a daily basis.
Ahmad Sarparast, Morteza Mashoodkari, and Ayoob Poor-Rezazadeh were found guilty of "spreading deviant beliefs contrary to Islam" based on an amended version of Article 500 of Iran's penal code. This amendment has been a subject of controversy, with the UN Human Rights Committee expressing concerns about its implications.
The decision to allow the individuals to serve their sentences outside of prison, while still requiring them to work at a factory, represents a form of alternative sentencing. It is intended to maintain some level of supervision and control over the individuals while also allowing them to continue their daily lives outside of a prison environment.
Please pray for:
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Ahmad, Morteza and Ayoob as they navigate their daily lives outside of prison. May God give them strength and courage to face any challenges or discrimination they may encounter. May God shield them from harm and grant them wisdom to make the right decisions in their work and interactions with others.
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Pray God will grant wisdom and perseverance to advocates and organisations working tirelessly to protect the rights of believers in Iran. May justice prevail and religious minorities be granted the freedom to worship and practice their faith without fear of persecution.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:10