Iran Declares Christian Satellite Broadcasters as Hostile Actors

Iran Tightens Grip on Christian Satellite Broadcasts

In a significant move against religious broadcasts, Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence has labeled several Persian-language Christian satellite channels as “hostile” entities. This declaration signals potential harsh penalties for Iranian viewers who access these channels.

According to a report by a Christian in Iran, shared through Open Doors, this action represents a significant challenge to “one of the few remaining lifelines” for Christians within the country.

The Iranian authorities have issued stern warnings that engaging with these so-called “hostile” agents could result in charges under espionage laws, escalating the risks for those involved.

Iran is currently ranked by Open Doors as the 10th most oppressive nation for Christians globally. The conversion from Islam to Christianity is prohibited, and Christian preaching in the Persian language faces strict limitations.

While the historic Armenian and Assyrian Christian communities in Iran are allowed to conduct worship services in Persian, they too have experienced government crackdowns, including the recent seizure of a 150-year-old church.

Christian gatherings are frequently targeted by raids, and attendees face arrest. The situation has deteriorated amid tensions with Israel and the US, with Christians often suspected of aligning with foreign adversaries.

A local Christian emphasized the critical role of these broadcasts, stating, “There are so many people in Iran hearing the gospel for the very first time through these satellite TV programmes. When there is no church to visit, no Christian community you know, no Bible and no Christian materials available, these TV programmes become the only place where people can hear God’s Word.”

The isolation experienced by Christians in Iran is described as an aspect of the broader persecution. “When you think you are the only Christian in your town or city, these programmes help you pray, hear God’s Word and realise you have not been forgotten; you are connected to a much bigger body of believers,” the individual added.

Fear of reprisal has led many young Iranians to avoid engaging with Christian content online, opting for secure VPNs and erasing search histories after visiting such pages. Access to Christian resources remains heavily restricted.

Despite the Iranian regime’s efforts to curtail the spread of Christianity, Open Doors reports that the Church continues to grow. The group suggests that this growth is a key reason for the government’s increased repressive measures.