The Iran-Israel war and the church in Iran: A Christian reflection

It has been hard to write a short report on the situation in Iran, due to the ongoing developments. But there is a very brief summary and analysis from a Christian view of what is happening among Iranians in general, but specifically, Iranian evangelical Christians.

1. The bigger picture: War and the religious system behind it
   In June 2025, Iran and Israel entered a short but intense conflict, known as the 12-Day-War. Israel started the war by striking nuclear targets. Those strikes were mostly precise. Civilian casualties were lower than feared, but inside Iran, fear increased, not from outside attack, but from the regime itself. The internet and phone communications were stopped, which made things very difficult for the general public and added to the fear levels.
   
   The Iranian government, built on the doctrine of Wilayat al-Faqih (Guardianship of the Jurist), sees itself not just as a political power, but as a religious authority. Its leaders believe they are preparing the world for the Mahdi’s return (Mahdi is the last promised Imam of the Shi’ite Islam). This belief is not fringe; it is central to how they operate. That is why the regime thrives on crisis, especially with Israel and the West. And when Israel or the West starts to fight, it fuels their rhetoric. And when crisis comes, the people suffer.
   
2. Christian life under pressure
   Christians inside Iran live with ongoing pressure. The police have increased their presence in many areas. Helicopters are flown over residential neighbourhoods as a show of power and intimidation. Several Iranians were arrested and executed recently, and broadcast on the national media, accused of being Israeli or American spies.
   
   Many hoped that Israel’s attacks would lead to a regime collapse. There were many in the general public who were celebrating that this oppressive Islamic regime would be uprooted once and for all. But that hasn’t happened. Now, many feel more hopeless than before. Fear has kept people from protesting, and fear keeps many Christians silent.
   
   One young believer said, “We can’t even meet to worship. We have not been able to do that for years. How can I have close fellowship, being discipled by a faithful pastor. How can I find a Christian spouse? We are isolated.” The lack of physical church gatherings has been and continues to be deeply affecting the community - not only spiritually, but relationally.