Iran Cuts Pastor’s Family Visits

Pastor Abdolreza Ali Haghnejad, also known as Matthias, is serving a six-year sentence for “propagating Christianity” in Iran. Initially imprisoned in his hometown, he was unexpectedly transferred 1,000 miles away to Minab in July 2023.

Granted monthly visits home, this privilege was revoked in June 2024, cutting him off from his wife Anahita and daughter Hannah. The decision, believed to come from the Ministry of Intelligence, leaves Matthias uncertain about when he’ll see his family next.

Despite a scheme allowing prisoners to work and spend time outside, Matthias’s access to this was also removed.

Article18's director highlighted the nearly 20 years of persecution Matthias has faced for his faith and called on Iran to cease such religious persecution.
 
Please pray for:

• Matthias’s strength and protection during his imprisonment and for a swift and just resolution to his case.
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• Comfort and support for Anahita and Hannah, and for the family's eventual reunion.

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?"
Romans 8:35