Christians inside Iran are experiencing growing fear, isolation and uncertainty as protests spread across the country amid a deepening economic crisis, according to information shared with Christian Daily International by a ministry working with Iranian Christian refugees.
Those who spoke to the ministry did so anonymously because of security risks. They described widespread internet and phone shutdowns, reports of deaths and arrests, and increasing anxiety among religious minorities as unrest continues.
Several Christians said they have been unable to contact relatives and friends for days after authorities restricted communications across large parts of the country. Others reported hearing of people they know being killed during protests linked to rising living costs and long-standing political grievances.
One Iranian Christian, identified as Brother S, said the situation has become extremely distressing. He said security concerns and emotional strain have affected both individuals and families, adding that several friends and acquaintances were reported to have lost their lives during the unrest.
International media and human rights organisations have reported large-scale demonstrations, mass arrests and a heavy security response. Independent verification remains difficult because of limited access and ongoing communication blackouts.
Another Christian, identified as Brother R, said the protests reflect not only economic desperation but also deeper dissatisfaction with Iran’s political system. He described shortages of electricity, gas and water, alongside harsh winter conditions in some regions.
“The situation of Christians in Iran is not good,” he said, adding that the lack of communication has made it almost impossible to understand what is happening on the ground.
Others highlighted the emotional impact of being cut off from loved ones. Brother M said many families feel helpless as economic pressure and psychological stress continue to rise. Christians living outside Iran have been particularly affected, with some unable to reach relatives for several days.
Brother A said he had no contact with his family for four days because of the shutdown. “We do not know what is happening in Iran or what has happened to our family members,” he said.
The country’s worsening economic conditions have added to public anger, according to those who spoke with the ministry. The sharp fall in the value of the Iranian rial has pushed up prices and made basic necessities increasingly unaffordable.
Families are struggling to buy food, medicine and other essentials, sources said. “Many households can no longer afford meat or even milk for their children,” Brother A said.
Several Christians said the demonstrations go beyond economic demands and reflect a broader call for political change. While protests were triggered by living conditions, they said frustration with the ruling system has been building for years.
Concerns have also grown about the government’s response. Some sources said clashes appeared to intensify after the communication blackout began, though reliable information remains limited.
Brother A claimed that large numbers of people have been killed or detained, though these figures could not be independently confirmed.
A pastor linked to the refugee ministry, identified as Pastor A, said the shutdown has left churches and believers unable to assess conditions inside the country.
“We are very worried and do not know what is happening,” he said, adding that churches are relying mainly on foreign news reports, which provide only limited details.
The pastor said Christians in Iran already face severe restrictions, with many believers imprisoned under laws that limit religious activity, particularly for converts from Islam.
Another Christian leader working with Iranian refugees warned that periods of unrest can increase risks for minorities. He pointed to the use of the charge of moharebeh, or “waging war against God”, which can carry severe penalties and has been used in the past against protesters.
He said Christians are sometimes portrayed by hard-line groups as being aligned with foreign powers, making them vulnerable during times of national crisis. Reports of arrests of Christians in early January have heightened those concerns.
Iran’s Christian population is estimated to number several hundred thousand to more than a million people in a country of about 93 million. This includes historic Armenian and Assyrian communities, as well as converts from Islam, who face the greatest danger.
Despite the uncertainty, those who spoke emphasised prayer and solidarity. “We believe God is in control,” Brother A said. “We continue to pray for the people of Iran.”
Pastor A expressed gratitude for international attention. He said that being able to share information about the situation helps Iranian Christians feel less isolated.
Adapted from CDI.
