Family and friends of three Christians from Azerbaijan and an Iranian Christian are pleased to report that they have been permitted to leave prison on bail.
Middle East Concern report that ‘the three Azerbaijani men, all from Baku, were allowed to travel back home on 6 November.’[1] Many people have been praying and writing to the Iranian authorities on behalf of the men and so it is encouraging to see this result.
Eldar Gurbanov , Yusif Farhadov and Bahram Nasibov were arrested on 24 June when security officials raided a wedding party they were attending. ‘Seven others were also arrested, most of whom were quickly released. However Eldar, Yusif, Bahram and Iranian Christian convert, Naser, were taken to Evin Prison for interrogation.’[2]
Subsequently, the four men were kept in solitary confinement for two months and interrogated. Their whereabouts were not made known, to the concern of family members. They were refused access to any legal support during this initial period of their detention.
‘In September, the men were transferred out of solitary confinement to shared cells in Ward 350 in Evin Prison, much to their mutual encouragement. They faced charges of engaging in missionary activity and propaganda against the regime, but it is hoped that they will be acquitted of these charges.
Finally, on 29 October they were released on bail.’[3]
Let’s give thanks to God for answered prayer and pray for continued strength for the men and their families. Eldar, Yusif and Bahram are all married and have children. Yusif has a young son with Down’s Syndrome. Continue to pray that they would be aware of God’s presence very close and that they would receive any necessary emotional and spiritual support required after the trauma and pray that the men would be acquitted of the charges.
[1] www.meconcern.org
[2] www.opendoors.org.uk
[3] www.opendoors.org.uk