Release International

An Iranian Christian has won his fight to be allowed to visit his son in prison – but is now deeply concerned about the 29-year-old's health and well-being.

Ali Golchin has been held in solitary confinement in Tehran's Evin prison since he was arrested in his home town of Varamin on April 29. After weeks of appealing to the authorities, his father was finally allowed access to Ali on June 17 – though they were allowed only ten minutes together.

Ali's father told Release sources that he was distressed to find his son 'crying uncontrollably' and in obvious pain. Ali, who is a chemical analyst, said he had twice been sent to the prison health centre due to 'weakness and severe stomach aches'. Farsi Christian News Network (FCNN) reports that its sources inside Iran believe Ali has been ill-treated during interrogation sessions.

The Iranian authorities have still not charged Ali with any offence – and nor has a defence lawyer been appointed to his case. FCNN reports that Ali's wife has been told not to attend church and that, if she wants to negotiate with the authorities about Ali's release, she must first become a Muslim.

(Source: Farsi Christian News Network)

• Pray for Ali's immediate release. Ask God to strengthen him and his family.
• Pray that God will touch the hearts of Iranian officials charged with detaining Christian prisoners of faith such as Ali.

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