U.S. Govt Protests Iran's Death Sentence on Christian Pastor

With inside reports suggesting that the execution orders have already been determined, it may be too little and too late that the White House and the U.S. State Department have now released statements calling for Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani’s immediate release from his Iranian persecutors.

Pastor Nadarkhani's crime? He trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior and he will not recant his belief.

Here's the White House statement:

The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms reports that Iranian authorities’ reaffirmed a death sentence for Iranian Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani for the sole reason of his refusal to recant his Christian faith. This action is yet another shocking breach of Iran’s international obligations, its own constitution, and stated religious values. The United States stands in solidarity with Pastor Nadarkhani, his family, and all those who seek to practice their religion without fear of persecution—a fundamental and universal human right. The trial and sentencing process for Pastor Nadarkhani demonstrates the Iranian government’s total disregard for religious freedom, and further demonstrates Iran's continuing violation of the universal rights of its citizens. The United States calls upon the Iranian authorities to immediately lift the sentence, release Pastor Nadarkhani, and demonstrate a commitment to basic, universal human rights, including freedom of religion. The United States renews its calls for people of conscience and governments around the world to reach out to Iranian authorities and demand Pastor Nadarkhani's immediate release.

Prayers for our persecuted brothers and sisters in the Faith must continue to be fervent, frequent and, whenever possible, connected with public advocacy.