On Saturday, April 13, 2025, Iranian security forces affiliated with the Ministry of Intelligence raided the home of a Christian couple in Tehran. During the operation, they searched the residence, confiscated personal belongings, and arrested Lida Alexani, transferring her to Evin Prison.
This arrest comes amid an already difficult situation for the family, as Mrs. Alexani’s husband, Joseph Shahbazian, has been in detention since February 6, 2025.
Shahbazian, previously sentenced to one year in prison for his religious activities, is now being detained for a second time by Intelligence Ministry agents and remains held in Evin Prison.
Notably, Lida Alexani’s arrest occurred just one day before the funeral of Mr. Shahbazian’s mother—an event that has heightened concerns over increasing pressure and harassment faced by religious minority families in Iran.
