Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) has voiced concern about the future for religious minorities in Iran after a fatwa, or religious edict was issued against the Baha'i community. The fatwa, or religious edict, was issued by the Supreme Leader of Iran Ayatollah Ali Khameni on 31 July. It labels Baha'i as a ‘deviant and misleading sect’ and calls on Iranians to avoid them. Baha’i has over 300,000 followers. The US Commission on International Religious Freedom puts the number of Baha'is currently being held in prison for their beliefs at 110. They suffer further discrimination in employment and learning, being excluded from further education and public sector jobs. CSW said that as ultimate power lies with the Supreme Leader it was questionable whether newly installed President Hassan Rouhani could meet his promise to rule with moderation and ensure the rights of religious minorities. The fatwa calls into question the possibility of any early improvements in the plight of all Iran's religious minorities including Christians.
Pray: for God to inspire the leadership of Iran to protect and treat minority groups fairly. (Dan.11:1)