The Iranian regime has intensified its campaign against religious freedom by imposing a combined total of 55 years in prison on five Christian converts, including two women, after the Tehran Appeals Court upheld their convictions.
On July 5, 2026, the appeals court confirmed a 17-year prison sentence for Ayda Najaflou, an 8-year sentence for Lida Alexani, and 10-year prison terms for each of three male Christian converts. Human rights advocates say the sentences reflect the regime’s continued persecution of individuals who peacefully practice or adopt Christianity.
The five defendants were convicted on charges such as “propaganda against the state” and “acting against national security”—accusations that Iranian authorities have frequently used against religious minorities, political dissidents, and civil society activists.
Ayda Najaflou, a prisoner of conscience, was arrested in February 2025 and detained in Ward 209 of Evin Prison, which is controlled by the Ministry of Intelligence. During her detention, concerns were raised about her health, including the risk of serious spinal complications. She was eventually released on bail in December 2025 while awaiting the outcome of her appeal.
Lida Alexani, also a resident of Tehran, was arrested on April 13, 2025, and released on bail one month later. Despite their temporary release, both women now face lengthy prison terms following the court’s decision.
Although Christianity is officially recognized under Iran’s constitution, authorities have long distinguished between historic Christian communities and Muslims who convert to Christianity. Converts often face surveillance, arbitrary arrests, prosecution, and imprisonment simply for exercising their freedom of religion or belief.
Human rights organizations have repeatedly criticized Iran for criminalizing peaceful religious activities and using national security charges to silence members of minority faiths. The latest sentences underscore the growing pressure faced by Christian converts and raise renewed concerns over the regime’s systematic violations of religious freedom.
International human rights advocates continue to call on the global community to press Iranian authorities to release all prisoners detained solely because of their faith and to uphold the fundamental right to freedom of religion guaranteed under international law.