Article 18 Organization: Sixfold Increase in Prison Sentences for Christians in Iran

The 'Article 18' organization, a non-profit NGO based in London, announced that the total prison sentences issued against Christians in Iran in 2024 have increased sixfold compared to 2023. In a recent report titled 'The Tip of the Iceberg,' the organization revealed that Iranian authorities sentenced Christians to a total of over 250 years in prison last year. Following widespread arrests in the second half of 2023, 96 Christians in Iran were sentenced to a total of 263 years in prison in 2024. This figure shows a significant increase compared to 2023, when 22 Christians were sentenced to a total of 43.5 years. Article 18 noted that the length of prison sentences for Christians has also increased, with six individuals facing sentences of 10 to 15 years for religious-related activities. The organization described the published statistics as minimal, emphasizing that many cases are never reported. It also highlighted recent developments, including the targeting of Christians' financial affairs and the confiscation of their properties by Iranian agents. According to the report, Christians and their lawyers are increasingly questioned about the potential receipt of foreign funds. The report states: 'It seems that the Iranian government, as part of a broader strategy to suppress the growth and influence of the Christian community, has intensified efforts to isolate and financially weaken this community.' Article 18 described the practice of financial donations and tithing to support church activities as common among Christians worldwide, noting that revolutionary courts in Iran have criminalized such actions. The organization stated on its website that 'Iranian officials severely suppress the right to freedom of religion and belief. Iranian Christians, especially those not recognized by the government, face arbitrary detention, highly unfair trials, and long prison sentences. Delays in due process, unfair trials, widespread torture, and mistreatment of prisoners have been widely reported.' Article 18 is a London-based NGO that aims to 'promote religious freedom and support Christians in Iran who are subjected to religious persecution (violations of religious freedom).' The organization's website states: 'Our vision is to realize a dream in which human rights and religious freedom are respected for all citizens in Iran.'