Iranian Authorities Order Imprisonment of Pastor’s Wife Lida Alexani

Lida Alexani, the wife of imprisoned Iranian pastor Joseph Shahbazian, has been summoned to Tehran’s Evin Prison to begin serving a 13-year sentence. Alexani was originally convicted in October 2025 alongside four other Christians for activities related to their faith, including "deviant proselytizing" and "gathering and collusion" in connection with house church worship. While her total sentence is 13 years, reports indicate she is expected to serve the longest single term of eight years under Iranian law.

Alexani had been free on bail since May 2025, following a month-long detention that included time in solitary confinement. Her husband, Pastor Shahbazian, has been incarcerated since February 2025 and is currently serving a 16-year sentence. Advocacy groups, including Voice of the Martyrs Canada, have highlighted the ongoing pressure on Iranian converts and house church members, who frequently face charges related to national security. Supporters are calling for prayers for the couple and their family as Alexani prepares to enter the prison system.