According to a report released on Feb. 19 titled “Scapegoats: Rights Violations Against Christians in Iran,” Christians in Iran cumulatively received a total of more than 280 years in prison for their faith in 2025. The findings, compiled by Middle East Concern (MEC), Open Doors, Article 18, and Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW), reveal an astonishing increase in the targeted persecution of Christ followers in the nation. One key point in the data shows the harshness with which Iranian courts are dealing with Christians. Despite fewer Christians being sentenced to prison in 2025 than in 2024, the sentences were more severe.