Persecution of Muslim Background Believers in the Middle East

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Muslim Background Believers (MBBs) in the Middle East face severe persecution for their faith. Converting from Islam to Christianity is considered apostasy in many Middle Eastern countries and is punishable by death under Islamic law in several nations.

Types of Persecution:

MBBs commonly experience rejection and disownment by family members, who view conversion as bringing shame to the family. Physical violence, including honor killings, remains a serious threat. Many MBBs lose employment opportunities and face social ostracization. Government authorities in countries like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Afghanistan actively arrest and imprison converts. House churches are frequently raided, and believers face charges of "acting against national security" or "spreading corruption."

Notable Recent Incidents:

In Iran, multiple MBBs have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms for their faith. The Iranian government has intensified its crackdown on house churches, with reports of increased arrests and property confiscations. In Afghanistan, following the Taliban's return to power, MBBs face extreme danger and many have gone into hiding or fled the country. In Saudi Arabia, despite some social reforms, religious conversion remains strictly prohibited, and MBBs must worship in absolute secrecy.

The international community continues to call for religious freedom protections, but persecution of MBBs in the Middle East remains one of the most severe human rights challenges in the region.