Persecuted Church

What would make someone cycle 6,400km across Europe? For Arotin Babakhani, it was a 17-year calling and a deep love for Christians in Iran. He reflects on the remarkable journey and what God taught him along the way.

Amid persecution, fear and deep economic hardship in Iran, the underground church continues to grow as people encounter Jesus through dreams, healing and bold witness. Transform Iran stands with believers through practical aid, discipleship and gospel outreach across one of the most restricted nations in the world.

As the humanitarian crisis and instability in Iran continue, Dutch-Iranian cyclist Arotin Babakhani has begun a 5,547km journey toward the Iranian border to raise awareness and support for persecuted Christians. Driven by a vision God gave him at 19, the nine-week ride aims to amplify the stories of suffering, faith and hope emerging from Iran’s underground church.

As Iran faces growing instability and humanitarian crisis, Arotin Babakhani is cycling 5,547 km to the Iranian border to support persecuted Christians. His journey is drawing attention to urgent need—and inviting a response.

As Iran dominates global headlines with protests, violent crackdowns and escalating conflict, the reality inside the country is far more complex. In this Voice podcast with Release International, Lazarus Yeghnazar shares a rare, personal perspective on a nation under pressure and an underground church experiencing unprecedented spiritual growth.

Iran’s execution rate is soaring in one of the deadliest crackdowns in decades. Mass arrests, political trials, and threats to free speech, women’s freedom, and religious freedom in Iran are intensifying after Mahsa Amini’s death.

Iranian Christians fleeing persecution often find themselves in another impossible situation: no country to call home. Learn about some of the challenges facing asylum seekers and how you can help.