An Iranian Christian has been released from prison after a three-and-a-half-year sentence for “propaganda against the regime” and “acting against national security”.
Alireza Seyyedian, a Church of Iran member, was originally sentenced to six years’ imprisonment, 90 lashes and a fine, reports Middle East Concern, but his sentence was reduced in May 2013.
After his initial sentencing in March 2012, he attempted to flee across the Turkish border, but was caught and imprisoned.
In October 2014, he went on hunger strike for a few weeks to protest against overcrowding in his prison. In May 2015, he was transferred to another ward.
Around 90 Iranian Christians are still in prison, including Mohammadreza Hosseini, another Church of Iran member, who was arrested and detained at the same time as Seyyedian.