As you may already know, the ACLJ has been engaged in a global effort to save the life of an Iranian Christian Pastor who has been condemned to death by hanging for his Christian faith. His only crime: He embraced Christianity and, for that, has been sentenced to death by the Muslim-controlled government of Iran. The Iranian court demanded that Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani recant his faith three times, to which he responded, “I cannot.”
Working with contacts on the ground in Iran, international media, and congressional leaders, the ACLJ has been fully engaged in an aggressive strategy to put pressure on Iran to save Pastor Youcef's life. The White House spokesman has issued a statement condemning the promised execution of Pastor Youcef and is demanding his release. We are calling on Secretary of State Clinton to step forward and put the full diplomatic weight of the United States behind this international outcry to save Pastor Youcef. Our attorneys have been working directly with Pastor Youcef’s attorney in Iran, literally around the clock, in an effort to save his life and secure his release from prison.
I want to share with you a video we have compiled - a brief snapshot of our media outreach on Fox News, CBN News, and the 700 Club - to share Pastor Youcef’s story and put pressure on Iran for his release. Please watch the video and share it with anyone you know who would like to support this pastor.
As Pastor Youcef’s attorney told us yesterday, the most important thing we can be doing for Pastor Youcef is sharing his story and urging our leaders to pressure Iran to spare this man’s life and release him from prison.
The situation in Iran is very fluid. Pastor Youcef remains under the threat of death, and we are working aggressively to save his life. And, thanks to you, we are making a difference. Since you have been sharing our blog posts, tweeting our updates, forwarding our emails, and signing our petition, we have been able to put the spotlight on this tragic ordeal, and the news coverage and statements of support from congressional leaders are keeping this important story at the forefront.
This pressure on Iran is not going unnoticed. Our contacts in that country tell us that the judges in the case - who hold the power to execute or free Pastor Youcef - are aware of the international concern - especially in the U.S. It is crucial that we continue to keep the pressure on Iran. And we are committed to doing just that.
The only reason that we have been able to engage this issue fully - in this country and in Iran - is because of your generous support. We are engaged in so many battles around the globe - some that we are not able to publicly discuss for the safety of those involved - but none of this would be possible without your generous support.
Thank you for your support, and please continue to keep Pastor Youcef in your prayers and share his story with anyone you know. His life truly hangs in the balance.
Jordan Sekulow
ACLJ Executive Director
Father, we depend on you for true justice, true mercy, and all things good. We know you love this man, and we ask that you would spare his life to continue pursuing more souls. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.