A group of U.S. lawmakers has introduced a resolution condemning the widespread persecution of Christians in Muslim-majority countries and calling for greater American involvement to protect religious freedom globally.
The resolution, presented to Congress on 17 July, highlights alarming levels of violence and discrimination faced by Christians around the world. It cites research from Open Doors, which reports that over 380 million Christians experience serious persecution and pressure because of their faith, especially in countries with Muslim majorities.
The measure was introduced by Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri and Representative Riley Moore of West Virginia, both Republicans, along with several other Republican members of Congress.
“Our country was founded on the principle of religious freedom,” Senator Hawley said. “We must not remain silent while Christians across the globe are punished simply for following Jesus Christ. These are grave injustices that must be condemned.”
Representative Moore echoed the urgency, calling on fellow lawmakers to act.
“Christians worldwide are being targeted just for professing the name of Jesus,” he said. “We cannot ignore this any longer. It’s time to take a stand.”
Other co-sponsors include Representatives Brandon Gill (Texas), Glenn Grothman (Wisconsin), Michael Guest (Mississippi), Pat Harrigan (North Carolina), Anna Paulina Luna (Florida), Addison McDowell (North Carolina), and W. Gregory Steube (Florida).
Representative Grothman, speaking to International Christian Concern, encouraged both the U.S. government and churches worldwide to be vocal about the persecution Christians face.
“When other groups are targeted, they speak out,” he said. “Christians deserve that same voice. Everyone should be free to live out their faith without fear of violence or punishment.”
The resolution names 23 countries where Christians routinely face threats, including Afghanistan, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Turkey, and Yemen.
The lawmakers highlighted recent violent attacks in Nigeria, where 250 Christians were killed in two separate incidents during Palm Sunday and June 2025. The resolution also references a 2020 Genocide Watch report, which described Nigeria as a “killing field” for defenceless Christians.
In Afghanistan, Christians are forced into hiding due to severe mistreatment, including physical abuse, torture, and sexual violence, the resolution states.
The legislation calls on President Trump to use diplomatic channels, such as trade discussions and national security negotiations, to prioritise the protection of Christians facing persecution worldwide, especially in countries where they are at particular risk.
Kelsey Zorzi, Director of Global Religious Freedom at ADF International, welcomed the resolution.
“Christians continue to be the most persecuted religious group globally, particularly in many Muslim-majority nations,” Zorzi said. “This resolution rightly recognises the seriousness of the situation and calls for meaningful action. We cannot turn away while believers are silenced, killed, or driven underground.”
Adapted from International Christian Concern.
