China-Iran Alliance May Intensify Christian Persecution, Warns Watchdog

The International Christian Concern warns that the strong alliance between China and Iran, reaffirmed by President Xi Jinping during the BRICS summit, may worsen the persecution of Christians in both countries. The ICC highlights the grim reality of religious oppression in these nations, with China imposing new restrictions on religious activities and Iran’s history of executing and torturing Christians. The situation raises alarms about combined efforts against religious practices and the potential global implications of their alliance.

The recent affirmation of support for Iran by Chinese President Xi Jinping during the BRICS summit may exacerbate the already dire situation regarding the persecution of Christians in both nations, warns the International Christian Concern (ICC), a U.S.-based watchdog organization. At this summit, President Xi declared that, despite fluctuations in the international and regional landscape, “China will unswervingly develop friendly cooperation with Iran,” highlighting their strong alliance. The ICC has noted that both China and Iran are designated as Countries of Particular Concern by the U.S. Department of State due to their grave violations of religious freedom. The organization stated, “China and Iran are known persecutors of Christians, and their mutual support could lead to increased persecution as both countries work to eliminate the practice of Christianity within their borders.” In a concerning development, on September 1, 2023, China instituted new regulations mandating that religious services, including sermons, reflect socialist values and characteristics unique to China. Clergy are now required to demonstrate allegiance to the Chinese Communist Party, escalating existing religious repression that has seen thousands of Christians subjected to torture, harassment, and imprisonment. Reports from the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom indicate that Chinese authorities have replaced Christian symbols with images of Communist leaders in several churches nationwide, resulting in the removal of crosses and religious artwork in favor of portraits of Xi Jinping and the former Chairman Mao Zedong. Meanwhile, Iran’s systematic oppression encompasses the execution, imprisonment, and torture of Christians, alongside its support for terrorist organizations like Hamas. This support came to global attention following the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, which left nearly 1,200 victims dead, including approximately 40 Americans, and resulted in numerous instances of torture and sexual violence against hostages. The ICC emphasizes that the Muslim majority in Iran, predominantly Shi’a Muslims, contributes to the challenging environment for Christians. It denounces China’s support for Iran, stating, “China’s unwavering support of Iran, regardless of Iran’s persecution of Christians and backing of terrorists, shows the world where its priorities lie.” The collaboration of these two nations raises significant alarm among Christian communities, who continue to suffer from religious persecution under their regimes. Furthermore, the ICC posits that the BRICS alliance seeks to challenge the current global balance of power moderated by Western nations and undermine the hegemony of the U.S. dollar as the primary global reserve currency.

The issue of religious persecution in both China and Iran has become increasingly critical in light of recent geopolitical developments. The alliance between these two nations is seen as a potential catalyst for heightened oppression of Christians, who already face severe discrimination and violence within their borders. The ICC’s warning underscores the implications of international cooperation among states known for their human rights violations, particularly regarding religious freedoms. This context is further complicated by the recent activities of the BRICS nations, which aim to counterbalance Western influence in global affairs and economic structures.

In conclusion, the strengthening of ties between China and Iran, as expressed by President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit, raises grave concerns regarding the future of religious freedom for Christians in both countries. The warnings issued by the ICC reflect an urgent need for global awareness and action to address the escalating persecution influenced by this alliance. As both nations continue to implement oppressive measures against Christians, their joint support system may pose a substantial threat to religious minorities in their regions.

Original Source: www.christianpost.com