Post-Election Crisis in Iran
On June 12, Iranians went to the polls after a fierce presidential campaign. Although the two leading candidates both claimed victory, the incumbent Ahmadinejad was declared winner by a large margin, despite some voting irregularities.
Hundreds of thousands of Iranian civilians responded to allegations of election fraud, resulting in mass demonstrations. The Iranian government reacted quickly, placing heavy restrictions on journalists reporting on the situation, and announcing they would not tolerate further demonstrations. Security forces arrested hundreds of protestors and journalists, left hundreds injured, and killed at least 17 people.
On June 23, government officials in Iran announced that no major election fraud had occurred, and that Ahmadinejad would serve a second term as president. Although demonstrations are waning, tensions are still high, and many lives have been irrevocably altered.
CRC Perspective
The call for shalom extends beyond our national boundaries to the whole of a broken world. As stated in Our World Belongs to God, "We call on all governments to do public justice and to protect the rights and freedoms of individuals, groups, and institutions...We pray for our rulers, and we work to influence governments - resisting them only when Christ and conscience demand...We grieve with hose who live under oppression, and we seek for them the liberty to live without fear" (Articles 52-3).
What Can You Do?
Stay Informed
Pray
A Prayer for the People in Iran
O God, be with the people of Iran. Lead them through this time of turmoil. Keep them safe. Guide their feet in the way of peace. Surround with your love all those who have been injured or imprisoned, their families, and the families of those who have been killed. Grant wisdom to the leaders of Iran. Kindle in their hearts the desire to do justice and to protect the rights and freedoms of the Iranian people. Allow justice to roll for all the people of Iran. We pray in Jesus' name. Amen.
