Washington D.C., Feb 22, 2013 / 17:07 pm
Christian Pastor Saeed Abedini, a U.S. citizen sentenced to eight years in an Iranian prison, has spoken out about his plight, which includes physical violence, psychological abuse and death threats.
"This new letter from Pastor Saeed could not be more clear or direct – he continues to face life-threatening abuse simply because of his religious beliefs," said Jordan Sekulow, executive director of the American Center for Law and Justice, which represents the pastor's wife and children in the U.S.
"The letter also underscores the need to move quickly. A U.S. citizen is in failing health from beatings and abuse – a menacing scenario that should command the full attention and engagement of the U.S. government."
In a Feb. 18 letter, the pastor said the conditions in his prison are "difficult." He explained that he is the target of physical violence and acts intended to humiliate him.