Iran to execute Christian pastor for renouncing Islam
December 10, 2010
Youcef Nadarkhani, a 32-year-old Protestant pastor who became a Christian at the age of 19, has been sentenced to death for renouncing Islam. Nadarkhani maintains that he did not practice any faith before his conversion to Christianity.
The "draconian language in the verdict makes it very clear that the Iranian authorities mean business," said Leonard Leo, chairman of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom. "He could be executed at any time. And for what? For being a Christian."
"We call upon the Obama administration and the international community to use every means available, to raise this issue and demand the unconditional release of Mr. Nadarkhani."
Nadarkhani's attorney has appealed the verdict to the nation's supreme court.
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