What the Iran/Israel conflict means for vulnerable Christians: please pray

As conflict between the governments of Iran and Israel escalates, here’s how Iranian Christians are particularly vulnerable. Please urgently pray for the region.

Conflict in the Middle East is dominating global headlines. Large numbers of civilians have already been killed, injured or displaced in the conflict between the governments of Iran and Israel. All civilians in the region are at risk but, amid this crisis, Iran’s Christian minority are particularly vulnerable.

Christians under severe suspicion in Iran

Under Iran’s theocratic regime, Christians – especially converts from Islam – already face severe restrictions and opposition. The country is number nine on the World Watch List, and Iranian believers are often viewed as Western-influenced ‘threats to the state’. Persecution includes long prison sentences for ordinary house church members for the vaguely worded charge of ‘acting against national security by connecting with ‘Zionist’ Christian organisations’. With tensions now erupting between Iran and Israel, experts warn that Iranian Christians will be even more targeted with suspicion and repression.

“Instead of protecting the people, the Iranian government is now arresting anyone caught taking or sharing photos and videos with news outlets,” shares Morteza*, an Iranian Christian. “Christians are especially vulnerable, as they risk being accused of espionage and deemed a threat to national security. If their faith is discovered, the consequences are far worse.”

Mass evacuation and difficult journeys

Open Doors partners have long supported Iranian Christians outside the country – though this work is being disrupted under the current situation. One of these local partners, Mehdi*, says: “We had a powerful and blessed training for Iran’s persecuted church – thanks to your support. But on the final day, as attendees prepared to return home, flights were suddenly cancelled. Fearful for their families back in Iran and with no end to the war in sight, they are now trying to return by bus. Please pray for their safety and that the blood of the Lamb will cover them on their journey.”

Travel is chaotic and difficult for a large number of people. Many residents are trying to evacuate from Tehran, Iran’s capital, and each day sees heavy traffic trying to leave and long queues at petrol stations. For Iranian believers who left the country in the past, it is a painful reminder. Parsa*, a church leader, told a local Open Doors source: “I had to flee my country years ago due to persecution, and it breaks my heart that I cannot stand physically beside my brothers and sisters to hug them or pray with them. But please pray that the Holy Spirit will protect and comfort them.”

“Please pray for an end to this devastating situation,” adds Pastor Fereshteh*. “People are abandoning their homes and belongings, fleeing big cities without knowing if or when they’ll return. Grocery prices have soared, and many are trying to stock up in case of emergency. In smaller towns, hotels and guest houses are filling up quickly. Please pray that, despite fear and differing opinions, people would remain united and support one another.”

Prayer urgently needed

Despite the pain, the church in Iran, Israel, the Palestinian Territories and the wider region continue to place their trust and hope in Jesus. They are urging us to join with them in prayer for wisdom for all leaders in the region, comfort and strength for everybody caught up in this crisis – particularly Christians vulnerable to increased persecution – and, above all, for lasting peace.

Please join this prayer, shared by an Open Doors senior advisor: “Lord of peace and justice, we cry out to You amid this escalating conflict. Comfort those injured and grieving in Iran and Israel. Restrain the hands of violence, give wisdom to leaders and protect the innocent. Let Your mercy break through the chaos. We pray for an immediate ceasefire, healing for the wounded civilians, and divine restraint over further military escalation between Israel and Iran. In Jesus’ name, amen.”