Persecuted pastor suffers internal bleeding after prison beatings

By Jordan Sekulow

It began last week. American pastor Saeed Abedini, who is serving an eight-year prison term in Iran because of his Christian faith, has been suffering from internal bleeding for months—injuries received from beatings in prison. In what could only be viewed as a cruel act of psychological abuse, prison officials took Pastor Abedini to a hospital last week—only for him to be turned away and brought back to Evin prison without receiving medical treatment for his internal bleeding.

Now comes word out of Iran that the beatings and physical abuse are intensifying. Abedini reported Monday that last week he was severely beaten the same day the prison officials took him to the hospital.

During the weekly prison visit Monday, Abedini’s family reported that his physical condition is worsening, having seen firsthand the marks and symptoms left by the recent beating. These beatings and the internal injuries are causing Pastor Abedini frequent fainting spells. Iranian officials are telling Abedini it could be an additional two months before he will receive medical treatment.

Such a delay is inhumane and a gross violation of Iran’s international obligations.