Iran: Pastor Nadarkhani still alive

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) is refuting claims that Pastor Yousef Nadarkhani has been executed in Iran.

Reports alleging that Pastor Nadarkhani had been hanged initially surfaced last week and have resurfaced today. Pictures purporting to show a man being hanged are being attributed as evidence of the pastor’s death. However, the man in these pictures is not Pastor Nadarkhani, and CSW’s sources have confirmed he is still alive.

On 8 September 2012, a court in Rasht acquitted Pastor Nadarkhani of apostasy, but sentenced him to three years for evangelising Muslims. Since he had already spent close to three years in Lakan Prison, the pastor was released after posting bail. He was returned to prison on 25 December 2012 on the orders of prison authorities, and released again on 7 January 2013.

CSW’s Chief Executive Mervyn Thomas said, “While we are relieved to report that Pastor Nadarkhani is alive, we urge caution in circulating rumours which must be deeply distressing for his family, his congregation and for many around the world who continue to pray for him. Given their possible ramifications, it is vital that reports of such a serious nature are stringently verified before dissemination.”

For further information or to arrange interviews please contact Kiri Kankhwende, Press Officer at Christian Solidarity Worldwide on +44 (0)20 8329 0045 / +44 (0) 78 2332 9663, email kiri@csw.org.uk or visit www.csw.org.uk.

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) is a Christian organisation working for religious freedom through advocacy and human rights, in the pursuit of justice.

Notes to Editors:

1. Background information on Pastor Nadarkhani