Five Iranian Christians have been handed prison sentences averaging 10 years each by Tehran’s Revolutionary Court for activities including prayer meetings, baptisms, and sharing Bibles.

Religious freedom watchdogs say the convictions highlight the ongoing crackdown on house churches and Christian converts in the country.

The verdict was issued on October 21, 2025, but the defendants were only informed of their sentences in late November and early December.

Those convicted include Pastor Joseph Shahbazian and Nasser Navard Gol-Tapeh, both of whom have previously served prison terms for involvement in Iran’s underground church movement.

Three women, Shahbazian’s wife Lida, Aida Najaflou, and another whose identity has not been disclosed were also sentenced.

The group has been given 20 days to appeal the ruling

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