Iran threatening Tehran's historic Qavam Church in latest move against Iranian Christian minority

Iran has threatened to confiscate the historic compound of the Saint Peter Evangelical Church, known as Qavam Church, in Tehran, and evict the 20 families currently residing there. International media reported on Wednesday that security forces entered the church, stating an intention to "identify" individuals and later evacuate residents while taking over the premises. Sasan Tavassoli, a U.S.-based minister with the Presbyterian Church in Iran, relayed these threats, noting the authorities' intent to seize the property.

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Six security forces went into the church and sat through a session, saying they wanted to ‘identify’ people. They said they’ll return later to evacuate those living on the premises and take over.

Authorities have reportedly already seized a 10,000-square-meter garden belonging to the church, which is now allegedly occupied by four IRGC officials under a newly issued deed. Church officials and members have been warned that they will be considered trespassers if they attempt to enter the seized space. Tavassoli indicated that the central property is valued at "tens of millions of dollars."

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We were concerned about America all these years. America came. They slapped us on the face. We slapped them on the face back. And then America withdrew. So we are no longer afraid of America.

Experts believe the reported seizure aligns with a broader pattern of repression targeting Iran's Christian minority. Beni Sabti, an Iran expert and researcher at INSS, explained that reports suggest a rise in Christian conversions within Iran, particularly to Protestant denominations. He posits that the regime, concerned about this trend and the desire of many to escape its ideology, is lashing out at the "roots" of Christianity in the country. Sabti added that the regime's actions are often driven by fear and worry, especially following recent protests and conflicts.

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There are many reports from private eyes that much more people are converting to Christianity, especially to Protestant versions, and trying to get out of Iran by that excuse, and also just running away, escaping this ideology and Islam. Even if they stay in Iran, they want some kind of better life in their values, so they convert much more in recent years.

Sabti further noted that establishing new churches in Iran has been prohibited since the revolution, and the current plan to confiscate Qavam Church, which has stood for many years, reflects this ongoing suppression. The church has historically served Iran's small Protestant community, and its potential seizure marks a significant escalation in pressure on religious minorities.

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I think they wanted to go to the roots [of Christian life in Iran], and that's why they began to hurt the church. It has stood there many years, even before the revolution. Of course, no one can establish a new church in Iran since the revolution began, nor a Sunni mosque, nor a synagogue, and now they plan to confiscate it. Every time that the Iran regime does such a thing is because they are afraid and worried.