Christian Advocates Sound Alarm Over Deportation Risks for Iranian Converts
Christian human rights advocates are raising urgent concerns about the potential dangers facing Christian immigrants who are deported from the United States, particularly those from Iran. Recent reports indicate that a group of Iranian Christian converts could face dire consequences, including the death penalty, if returned to their home country. This situation raises questions about the adherence to international treaties and the implications of U.S. immigration policies.
Jeff King, the president of the U.S.-based organization International Christian Concern (ICC), highlighted the plight of at least ten Iranian Christians among approximately 350 migrants recently deported from the U.S. to Panama. These individuals are at risk of being sent back to Iran, where they could face severe persecution for their faith. King noted that Iran has a long history of persecuting Christians, particularly converts from Islam, who are often seen as traitors under the country’s strict interpretation of Sharia law.
In a statement, King emphasized, "If returned to Iran, they will face the death penalty for apostasy—a severe crime under Sharia law." This stark reality underscores the urgent need for the U.S. to reconsider its deportation policies, especially for individuals fleeing religious persecution.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) maintains that all migrants deported to Panama were in the country illegally and did not express fear of returning home during their processing. However, advocates argue that the lack of fear expressed does not negate the real threats these individuals face upon return. The ICC pointed out that international laws, such as the United Nations Convention against Torture, prohibit the forced return of individuals to countries where they are likely to face persecution.
Nina Shea, director of the Center for Religious Freedom at the Hudson Institute, referred to an executive order from former President Donald Trump aimed at advancing international religious freedom. Shea stated, "Our asylum and refugee practices should first and foremost go to those fleeing religious persecution." She believes that these Iranian Christians should be granted protection under this framework.
Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of providing refuge for those facing religious persecution. "As we protect our homeland, we must preserve effective refugee and asylum programs that shield vulnerable religious believers from repatriation into near-certain danger," Perkins stated.
The situation for Christians in Iran is dire, with increasing reports of rights violations. A recent report from Article 18, a London-based religious freedom organization, revealed that Christians in Iran received a combined total of 250 years in prison sentences in 2024, marking a dramatic increase in persecution. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for international attention and action.
In light of these developments, Christian advocates are calling for a reevaluation of U.S. immigration policies to ensure that those fleeing religious persecution are afforded the protection they desperately need. As the global community watches, the hope is that the U.S. will uphold its commitment to religious freedom and provide a safe haven for those who risk their lives to follow Christ.
For more information on the persecution of Christians worldwide, you can visit Open Doors USA or International Christian Concern.