Washington D.C., Feb 24, 2012 / 14:39 pm
The White House and U.S. Department of State are condemning reports that the Iranian government has issued an execution order for Pastor Yousef Nadarkhani because he refuses to reject his Christian faith.
“This action is yet another shocking breach of Iran’s international obligations, its own constitution, and stated religious values,” said a Feb. 23 statement from the White House press secretary’s office.
The White House condemned “in the strongest possible terms” reports that a death sentence was issued for the pastor, expressed “solidarity” with Nadarkhani, and observed that the ability to practice one’s faith “without fear of persecution” is “a fundamental and universal human right.”
Through its actions towards the condemned pastor, the Iranian government is demonstrating a “total disregard for religious freedom” and “continuing violation of the universal rights of its citizens,” it said.