Update: Iranian Christian women released from prison

Maryam Rustampoor and Marzieh Amirizadeh (last name posted as Esmaeilabad in some reports) were released from Iran’s Evin prison on Wednesday, November 18. They’d been held there since their arrest in March on various charges in connection with their Christian faith. On trial during the summer, neither would recant their Christianity even at the promise of being set free (see The Underground’s original report here).

There was no bail demanded for their release, but the two still face court hearings. In October, a judge dropped the charge that the women were “anti-state.” But they are still accused of trying to spread Christianity, which carries the charge of apostasy against Iran’s formally recognized religion of Islam. So the prayers of Christians everywhere are still needed.

Evin prison has been noted for human rights violations. According to Charisma Online, Rustampoor and Amirizadeh’s health suffered with ailments from infected teeth, headaches and back pain to severe food poisoning. Solitary confinement and repeat interrogations also took their toll.

Although Iran is watched for human rights violations by the United States Government as a “nation of concern,” not much action is being taken. It was a group called Open Doors that actively pursued the release of the women. Open Doors is an organization dedicated to rescuing and praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Iranian-based intimidation of Christians has been increasing since the late 1970’s. Read about the Iranian Christian Church, its history and persecution, here at Elam Ministries.

“You will be persecuted and brought before syngagogues and prisons…this will lead to an opportunity to present your testimony” (Luke 21:12-13, NAS excerpts).