Prisons in the Shadow of Explosions: Exposing the Repression and Helplessness of Christian Prisoners in Evin and Fashafoyeh

Prisons are in the shadow of explosions and repression following the war, and reports indicate increased pressure on Christian prisoners in Evin and Fashafoyeh and blatant violations of human rights.

While attention is focused on military developments and regional tensions, what is happening behind the high walls of Iran's prisons is a shocking picture of the helplessness of people who have already been victims of repression. Recent reports from inside Iran indicate that the situation of prisoners, especially in Evin Prison and Fashafoyeh Prison, has reached a worrying stage.

According to informed sources, "the security situation has increased, explosions have been heard within the prisons, and the conditions for prisoners have worsened." These developments are occurring at a time when thousands of political and ideological prisoners and protesters arrested in recent months are still living in uncertain and insecure conditions.

In addition, reports of food shortages and inadequate conditions indicate that food supplies to prisoners have been cut off and the prison store has been closed, leaving prisoners at risk of severe hunger. This further exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in prisons and shows that the Islamic Republic is unwilling to respect the most basic human rights of prisoners, even in times of crisis and war.

Among the prisoners, at least 16 Christian citizens are being held in Evin Prison for their religious beliefs and peaceful Christian activities. In addition, there are reports of 48 Christians being detained in various parts of the country. This is part of a continuing pattern of pressure on religious minorities in the Islamic Republic, a pattern that has repeatedly included arbitrary arrests, heavy sentences, and security charges against Christian citizens and activists over the past four decades.

Religious freedom advocates have repeatedly stated that charges such as "acting against national security" or "espionage" in many cases involving Christians have merely been a legal cover for suppressing peaceful religious activities.

The Center for Human Rights in Iran, referring to the situation of detainees, wrote that concerns are particularly serious about the tens of thousands of people who have been detained during recent nationwide protests, some of whom remain in a state of enforced disappearance. The organization warned against the reuse of vague charges such as “acting against national security” and “espionage,” charges that have previously been used to issue harsh sentences, including the death penalty.

The statement from the organization reads: "We call on governments around the world and international organizations to immediately use all available diplomatic and political channels to pressure the Iranian authorities to release all political prisoners and detainees and to ensure that no death sentences are carried out during this period of conflict."

It also emphasized: "We call on all parties to refrain from any action that could jeopardize the safety of vulnerable prisoners and detainees. Prisons are protected places under international humanitarian law in times of war. The rights, security and humane treatment of all prisoners and detainees must be fully guaranteed and respected in accordance with international law."

Reports indicate the deployment of special forces, known as Nopo, to Evin Prison, a unit tasked with counter-riot and security missions. The presence has raised concerns about the possibility of more severe restrictions, violent encounters, and increased pressure on prisoners.

It has also been reported that the management of Evin Prison has been seriously disrupted, with staff evacuating some wards by locking the doors, a situation that has disrupted prisoners’ access to the prison store and essential items. Such measures, in times of crisis, deprive prisoners of the most basic human needs.

This is not the first time that prisoners have been directly exposed to danger in the midst of military conflict. During the 12-day war between the Islamic Republic and Israel, there were also reports of deteriorating conditions in prisons. After the attack on Evin Prison, a group of prisoners were transferred to Greater Tehran Prison and Qarchak Prison; among them were 11 Christian prisoners of conscience who were held in crowded cells with about 40 other prisoners. Reports also indicated food shortages, poor sanitary conditions, and severe overcrowding.

At the same time, Article 18 expressed its deep concern about the safety of these prisoners, recalling that prisoners, especially in times of crisis and war, are in the most vulnerable position and protecting their lives and dignity is an urgent responsibility.

Prisoners have reportedly been kept in the dark about ongoing military developments. In previous attacks, despite known risks, no protective evacuations were carried out, and some prisoners were injured during transfers. This situation raises serious questions about the accountability of prison authorities and compliance with international standards.

What is happening in Evin and Fashafoyeh today is a continuation of the path that the Islamic Republic has taken over the past 47 years: “securitizing faith, criminalizing protest, and using prison as a tool of intimidation.” Within this framework, religious minorities, including Christians, have always been subject to double pressure.

While prisons are supposed to be protected places under international law, existing reports show that prisoners in Iran not only do not receive special protection, but are also left to their own devices in times of crisis.

For the Christian community and religious freedom advocates, the fundamental question is: Will the world hear the voices of these helpless prisoners, or will the high walls of Evin continue to silence the truth?