Iran (MNN) — The United States and Iran are set to resume nuclear talks in Geneva this Thursday, but tensions remain high.
Uncertainty surrounds possible U.S. military action. At the same time, Western officials warn Tehran could retaliate by targeting American bases or sites in Europe.
Tehran (Photo courtesy of Mdreza Jalali via Unsplash)
While diplomacy unfolds outside Iran’s borders, many inside the country are on an emotional rollercoaster as Western messaging shifts. Hormoz Shariat with Iran Alive Ministries explains:
“One day Trump says we’re going to attack, and people say, ‘Yes, Trump, come on — get rid of him. We can’t do this without you.’ The next day he says, ‘I’m negotiating with them,’ and people go, ‘No, no.’”
Many fear war, but even more fear the current government staying in power — and that protestors’ sacrifices will be forgotten.
“It just shows the depth of hopelessness among the people of Iran — or any people — that they would ask foreign nations, ‘Would you attack us?’” says Shariat.
However, any military action would be complex and unpredictable. Pray for the people of Iran to remain alert and prepared for whatever may unfold.
Photo courtesy by Ehsan Doostmohammadi via Wikimedia Commons
Meanwhile, pressure inside the country continues to mount, with reports of arrests, harsh sentences, and executions used to instill fear. “One cleric said that if we have to kill one million Iranians — not for us, but for Islam to stay in power — we will do it,” says Shariat.
According to Shariat, last year executions averaged five per day, reinforcing fear across the nation. Despite the risks, students continue to lead protests in some cities, and some Iranians openly voice support for Reza Pahlavi from their windows at night.
In the meantime, the Church carries a significant responsibility. The deeper tragedy is that many Iranians die without knowing their Savior. Shariat urges:
“So pray for the salvation of many — but not only that. Pray they would grow into a deep relationship with Christ, become disciples, and be agents of transformation.”
He also asks believers to pray for strength and boldness as Iranian Christians care for others and share their faith:
“Many people have come to Christ in the homes of Christians who are taking care of the wounded,” Shariat says.
Header photo: Iranian protest in Canada (Photo courtesy of Sima Ghaffarzadeh via Pexels).
