The Iranian authorities have sentenced Laleh Saati, a 45-year-old Christian from Iran, to two years in prison for allegedly “acting against national security” by connecting with “Zionist” Christian organizations.
Ms. Saati, who was baptized in a church in Malaysia, returned to Iran in 2017 to be with her elderly parents after facing delays in her asylum claim processing. Upon her return, Ms. Saati was interrogated for approximately three weeks, during which evidence of her Christian activities and baptism abroad was collected.
In February, she was arrested at her father’s home in Ekbatan Town, a suburb of Tehran, and taken to Evin Prison.
On March 16, she was brought before the judge who reportedly asked her why she had risked returning to Iran and a court case being opened against her, “given that you have done such things [Christian activities] outside of Iran”.
Ms. Saati’s two-year sentence, which also includes a two-year travel ban following release, was communicated to her lawyer. Her family were then informed and able to pass on the information to her in prison.
Laleh Saati’s case highlights the risks faced by asylum-seekers, particularly Christians, whose activities abroad can be used against them upon their return to Iran.
Prayer Points:
- Pray for Laleh Saati as she serves her sentence in Prison. Pray for strength and courage, may she find comfort and peace despite the challenging circumstances. Please pray for protection over Laleh’s physical and emotional well-being, may she be shielded from harm and find power in the support of the believers’ prayers.
- Pray for justice in Ms. Saati’s case, pray that the authorities may reconsider their decision and recognize her right to practice her faith without fear of persecution or imprisonment. May God’s mercy and grace prevail in the hearts of those in power.
- Pray for the comfort and strength for her family as they endure this difficult time apart. May they have peace, knowing that their daughter is safe in God’s hands.
- Pray for all Christians living at risk in Iran today. Pray for those facing similar punishment, and for those that have been deported back into Iran and may face similar charges upon their return. May their faith remain strong in the face of adversity.
Source: Article 18