Iran is facing a convergence of severe internal and external pressures as economic collapse, political repression, and escalating regional tensions unfold simultaneously. Inside the country, inflation remains extremely high, the national currency has continued to lose value, and the cost of food, fuel, and housing has placed unbearable strain on ordinary families. Sanctions, economic mismanagement, and reduced oil revenues have left millions facing insecurity and hardship.

Public protests, often led by young people and women, have re-emerged across multiple cities, driven by unemployment, corruption, and restrictions on personal freedoms. Human rights organisations report mass arrests, intimidation, internet shutdowns, and the use of force to suppress dissent. Communication blackouts and surveillance have further isolated communities and obscured the scale of unrest.

At the same time, regional instability has intensified. The United States has repositioned a naval battle group into the region, placing significant military assets within striking distance of Iran amid heightened rhetoric and warnings. Officials describe the move as a deterrent, yet analysts caution that such deployments increase the risk of miscalculation, escalation, or unintended confrontation particularly while Iran is already under profound internal strain.

For civilians, the combination of economic collapse, repression, and the threat of military conflict deepens fear and uncertainty. Any escalation would likely worsen humanitarian suffering, disrupt vital infrastructure, and further isolate the population. Yet even amid pressure and fear, many Iranians continue searching for truth, hope, and meaning. Underground Christian communities persist quietly, often at great personal cost.

Scripture reminds us that God is near to the crushed in spirit and hears the cries of the oppressed, even when nations tremble.

Prayer Pointers

1. Pray for Protection of Civilians Amid Unrest and Tension

Pray for families living under economic strain, fear, and uncertainty. Ask God to be their refuge and strength, providing daily needs and sustaining hope. Pray that courage and perseverance rise in hearts, for those quietly seeking truth and justice.

 “The Lord hears the needy and does not despise his captive people.”  Psalm 69:33

2. Pray for the Right to Peaceful Expression

Pray for Iranians peacefully voicing their hopes and frustrations, seeking justice and accountability. Ask God to safeguard demonstrations, move hearts toward restraint, and inspire leaders to listen with humility. Pray for safe advocacy, respect for human dignity, and that change comes through peaceful, righteous means.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.”  Matthew 5:9

3. Pray for Spiritual Awakening and Courage

Pray for spiritual awakening across Iran, that hearts would encounter Christ’s truth, peace, and freedom amid hardship. Ask God to strengthen underground believers, protect prayer networks, and awaken courage, hope, and faith where fear and repression seek to silence truth.

 “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”  John 8:32

Summary Prayer

God of justice and mercy, watch over the people of Iran. Protect the vulnerable, sustain peaceful change, and guide leaders with humility and wisdom. Let freedom, truth, and compassion shine, and may Your purposes of peace and hope prevail over fear, oppression, and despair. Amen.

More Information:

• IMF – Iran country economic overview
  https://www.imf.org/en/Countries/IRN
• Human Rights Watch – Iran protests and crackdown
  https://www.hrw.org/middle-east/north-africa/iran
• UN OHCHR – Human rights situation in Iran
  https://www.ohchr.org/en/countries/iran