We rejoice that Christian prisoners Nasser Navard Goltapeh and Fariba Dalir have recently been released from Evin prison, Tehran.

61-year-old Nasser was pardoned by the Supreme Leader and released on October 17th after spending nearly five years behind bars. This surprising development comes after Nasser was repeatedly denied retrial or parole over the past few years. Nasser had been serving a ten-year-sentence for “acting against national security” by belonging to a house church.

51-year-old Fariba was pardoned and released on October 18th after spending six months in prison. Fariba had begun serving a two-year sentence for action against national security on Easter Saturday 2022.

These developments come just a few days after a devastating fire in Evin prison killed at least eight prisoners and injured many others. It is unclear whether the releases and the fire are connected in any way. It is understood no prisoners of conscience were among those killed or injured.

Prayers are requested for Nasser and Fariba as they adjust to life outside prison and as they seek God’s wisdom for the future.

Pray for:

• Nasser and Fariba’s recoveries after their unjust imprisonments.

• Nasser’s reunion with his elderly mother, wider family and friends.

• Fariba’s reunion with her husband Soroush and daughter Arezoo.

• The pardon and release of all other prisoners of conscience in Iran.

At least 10 other Christians remain incarcerated in Evin prison. Please join us in praying for some of them using our Persecuted but not forsaken resource.