At least seven Iranian-Armenian Christians are among the thousands murdered by the Islamic Republic’s security forces over the past few days, Article18 understands.

Only one of the Christians, Ejmin Masihi, has so far been named by Armenian news sites, but Article18’s sources have confirmed that at least six others have been killed, while at least three more are reported to have been injured.

Meanwhile, at least one Christian convert is among the thousands arrested.

These developments show that members of both Iran’s recognised (Armenians and Assyrians) and unrecognised (converts) Christian communities have been involved in the nationwide demonstrations, which have seen millions of Iranians from all backgrounds take to the streets since 28 December, demanding an end to the regime.

Iranian Christians have also played a part in previous protests, including those in 2019, when at least one Iranian-Assyrian was among the over 300 killed, and 2022/3, when Assyrian youths were warned for their participation in protests that saw over 500 others killed.

This year, at least five times as many – some 2,500 – protesters are confirmed to have been killed, while many rights groups say the true figure is likely be far higher – perhaps as high as 12,000 or even 20,000.

The verification of reports has been made harder by the Internet blackout that has been in place now for nearly a week, during which time the security forces have committed what many are now calling a “massacre”.

In a statement released earlier today, Article18 called on the international community to ensure there is “no impunity for those responsible for crimes against the Iranian people” and that perpetrators are “identified and brought to justice through appropriate international mechanisms”. 

“The Islamic Republic has also significantly undermined its legitimacy through systematic repression and mass violence,” we say. “Countries should recall their ambassadors from Iran as a clear signal that relations cannot continue as normal. The Iranian regime can no longer be regarded as a legitimate member of the international community, having gravely violated both national and international laws. 

“We urge the international community, governments, churches, and international organisations to move beyond symbolic measures and to develop effective mechanisms to protect the Iranian people from ongoing and systematic state violence.

“What is unfolding in Iran today is not an internal political dispute—it is a sustained assault on human dignity, life, and fundamental rights.”