by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief
(Worthy News) – As diplomatic talks continue between Washington and Tehran, new reports from inside Iran describe intensifying repression and widespread fear among ordinary citizens.
Human rights advocates say arrests, executions, and violent crackdowns persist nationwide. Edwin Abnous of Heart4Iran told CBN News that the country functions like an “open prison,” where citizens are barred from freely speaking or organizing without government approval. He said many Iranians feel trapped under strict state control.
While protests have surfaced periodically since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Abnous believes the current unrest carries unusual momentum, driven by economic hardship, political repression, and public exhaustion. Still, he noted that many citizens remain fearful and are urging the international community to amplify their voices.
Christian leaders with contacts inside the country report that believers are both persecuted and actively engaged in helping protesters. Pastor Robby Dawkins of Robby Dawkins Ministries said Iranian Christians are praying for the wounded and ministering during demonstrations, despite threats from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He also cited shortages of medicine and harsh winter conditions adding to the suffering.
An Iranian church leader, speaking anonymously for security reasons, called on Christians worldwide to pray for prisoners and those facing execution and not to remain silent.
Advocates argue that the humanitarian crisis unfolding inside Iran adds urgency to ongoing nuclear negotiations, saying internal repression cannot be separated from the broader geopolitical struggle.
Copyright 1999-2026 Worthy News. This article was originally published on Worthy News and was reproduced with permission.
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