Speaking in the House of Commons, Ms Lockhart highlighted the UK’s long-standing commitment to freedom of religion and asked what steps Ministers are taking to ensure that, under any future regime in Iran, Christians are able to worship openly and without fear.

Responding, the Minister confirmed that freedom of religious belief remains a priority for the Foreign Office and said the issue has been raised repeatedly with the Iranian authorities. However, he acknowledged that the Iranian regime continues to impose significant restrictions on its own people and is not responding to UK representations.

Ms Lockhart said:

“Religious freedom is a fundamental human right. The ongoing persecution of Christians in Iran is deeply concerning, and it is vital that the UK continues to apply pressure alongside international partners.

House churches are commonly raided, often followed by arrests, interrogations, pressure to inform on other believers and long-term imprisonments, typically under charges of breaching ‘national security’. The conditions in prison are dire and bail sums can be extortionately high, financially paralysing families. If Christians are released, it typically comes with strict conditions, like exile in another part of Iran or self-censorship. Each year, thousands of converts flee Iran to escape persecution.

Warm words alone are not enough. We need to see sustained and coordinated action to ensure that those who wish to practice their faith can do so safely and openly.”