Please keep these women in your prayers. Also praise the Lord for women you are not ashamed or afraid to follow Jesus in a country that persecutes those that do. This article was taken from the Crosswalk & Voice of Martyrs website.
IRAN – Two Iranian Women Arrested and Held in “Notorious” Prison
On March 5, Marzieh Amirizadeh Esmaeilabad and Maryam Rustampoor were arrested by Iranian security forces and labeled “anti-government activists,” according to Farsi Christian News Network (FCNN). Thirty-year-old Marzieh and 27-year-old Maryam are being held at Evin Prison, which is notorious for treating women badly. “Both women are allowed just a one- minute telephone call everyday to their immediate families,” FCNN reported. The women are in need of urgent medical attention. During their last call on March 28, Mazieh said that she was suffering from an infection and high fever. She said, “I am dying.”
Marzieh and Maryam’s apartment was searched and their belongings were confiscated. FCNN added that their only crime is that they are committed Christians who follow the teachings of Jesus. They reported the women are being unfairly labeled as “anti-government activists” because of the hostility of the government towards practicing Christians. The women have reportedly been interrogated numerous times and were held in three different police detention centers before being sent to Evin Prison. FCNN reported an exorbitant bail amount of $400,000 (US) has been set even though Marzieh and Maryam’s families have been told on numerous occasions that a judge is not available to discuss the case.
Marzieh and Maryam’s arrest is the latest incident highlighting increased government intimidation of Christians in Iran. Believers are subjected to surveillance, arrests, imprisonment, and sometimes torture. The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for the immediate release of Marzieh and Maryam. Ask God to heal, encourage and protect them. Pray they will continue to stand for Christ during this difficult time.
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