Transferred to another Iranian prison

ICC is deeply disturbed by the transfer of American pastor Saeed Abedini from notorious Evin prison in Iran to Rajai Shahr Prison in Karaj. Diplomats, U.S. Senators, and the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) confirm that for Abedini to be held in this prison is essentially a "death sentence."   "Saeed's situation is not good," individuals close to the situation told ICC. "There is a struggle between the radicals and moderates inside of Iran and the radicals want him dead."  The conditions of the prison he has been transferred to are "impossible to overstate" and "horrific," according to the ACLJ. "Prisoners are routinely executed or murdered by other prisoners," said Jay Sekulow, Chief Counsel for the ACLJ. 23 U.S. Senators have claimed that if action is not taken now on behalf of Abedini, this prison transfer is a "death sentence." Diplomatic talks with Iran continue, and the ACLJ and Abedini's wife, Naghmeh, insist that it is critical for President Obama to engage directly with Iran in the situation. Iran's new president brought with him hope that there might be change and freedom for Abedini, however, individuals close to the situation indicate this is not the case, saying, "Things are the same. The Supreme Leader is the same. The guardian council is the same. There isn't any real change." Saeed Abedini has been imprisoned in Iran, for his faith, since the summer of 2012. Iran is recognized as one of the most restrictive countries in the world in regards to its persecution of Christians. For interviews, contact Ryan Morgan, Regional Manager for the Middle East: RM-ME@persecution.org # # #

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