Iran (MNN) — Monday marked two years since Mahsa Amini’s death in Iranian police custody after being arrested for wearing an “improper” hijab covering. Her alleged mistreatment and mysterious death led to widespread protests against the Iranian regime.
This week, the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) called again for Iran to be held accountable for “grave violations of religious freedom.”
Mike Ansari with Heart4Iran explains, “While these protests began in response to Mahsa Amini’s death, on [the] world stage they have evolved into a much wider call for change, discussing issues of authoritarian rule, economic disparity, religious oppression and freedom of expression.
“Her death became, if you would, a beacon of hope for many people who have grievances about Iran and also the global human rights issues that are taking place everywhere.”
Image of a protest from the past two years (Photo courtesy of SalamPix/ABACA/picture alliance via Heart4Iran)
Ansari says women in Iran still face persecution and challenges, while other realities have worsened since September 2022.
“Many people that are protesting or have protested either been killed, detained or disappeared. The regime has pretty much tightened control over all forms of dissent.”
In addition to this, Ansari says the Iranian regime has increased internet censorship, curtailing freedom of speech. But he adds that it’s important to note what has changed for the better.
“The protests that we saw following Mahsa Amini’s death are showing the world that the resilience and the courage of average, ordinary Iranian citizens is commendable, despite brutal crackdowns, atrocities and persecution,” he continues.
“We also seen a much stronger women’s movement in Iran that is being supported by other women across the world. It’s a bold act of resistance to face the severe punishments. Iranian women, even today in Iran, are pushing back on compulsory hijab laws.”
The best response right now is prayer.
“The gospel of Jesus is deeply intertwined in the theme of hope, freedom and justice,” Ansari says.
“Ask God to comfort those who’ve been affected by violence and heal their both physical and emotional wounds. We need to also pray for change of hearts — pray for those people who are subjecting average Iranian people to oppression, that they might come to know and love the Lord and the justice of Christ.”
Learn more about Heart4Iran’s multifaceted gospel ministry today.
Header photo courtesy of Heart4Iran.
