Arrest of “Mohammad Nikbakht” Christian Citizen in Extensive Security Raid
The arrest of Mohammad Nikbakht in an extensive security raid has occurred amid reports of concerning conditions for prisoners and increased pressure on Christian citizens in Iran.
According to a report released by the “National Council of Determination,” Mohammad Nikbakht, a republican activist and recognized figure in pro-democracy movements, was arrested by security forces on March 24, 2026 (24 Esfand 1404). This source also emphasized that he is a Christian citizen.
The report states that his arrest occurred in an unprecedented and terrifying assault by approximately 200 armed operational forces. A description that reveals the extraordinary scale of this security operation.
According to released information, Nikbakht was transferred to Ward 2A of Dastgerd Prison in Isfahan following his arrest; a ward typically overseen by security agencies. According to the “National Council of Determination,” concerns about his physical condition and personal safety are serious, as he had previously survived two failed assassination attempts.
This arrest occurs amid circumstances in which various reports indicate the continued pressure on civil, political, and religious activists in Iran. Human rights organizations have repeatedly warned in recent months of widespread arrests, issuance of harsh sentences, and even execution of opponents.
In this regard, Mai Sato announced at the Human Rights Council session in Geneva that many prisoners remain behind bars and stressed that these individuals were arrested solely for exercising their fundamental rights. These statements reflect international concerns regarding the human rights situation in Iran.
Meanwhile, reports have been released about inadequate prison conditions for detainees, particularly in prisons such as Evin and Fashafuyeh, indicating shortages of facilities, psychological pressures, and severe restrictions.
In this context, the situation of Christian citizens has also drawn the attention of organizations defending religious freedoms. According to reports, at least 16 Christian citizens are held in Evin Prison due to their religious beliefs and peaceful activities, and altogether approximately 48 people are detained in various locations across the country. International organizations have repeatedly stressed that these arrests contradict the principles of freedom of religion and conscience.
On the other hand, some independent reports and international media also show that in recent years, pressure on religious minorities, including Christians, has increased, and cases such as arrests, summons, and restrictions on religious activities have been repeatedly documented. Organizations such as “Article 18” and “Open Doors” have also referred to this trend in their annual reports.
The “National Council of Determination,” which identifies itself as a political organization aimed at transitioning from the Islamic Republic and establishing a democratic system based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, concluded its report with a warning about Nikbakht’s situation and called for immediate attention from international organizations to this case.
The totality of these developments paints a concerning picture of the human rights situation, particularly for civil activists and citizens with different religious beliefs in Iran; a situation that continues to be the focus of attention of international organizations and media.
