A recent report examines how the Islamic State Khorasan Province funds attacks on Christians across Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkey, and Europe. The study analyzes the group's financial ecosystem, noting that ISKP justifies violence against believers as retaliation for Western military actions. Experts argue that dismantling these financial networks is essential to stop persecution. By cutting off funding, the group's operational capacity is limited. The goal is to equip policymakers and human rights organizations with knowledge to reduce threats to Christian communities in the region, emphasizing the need for strategic intervention to protect vulnerable believers from targeted violence.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by KJ Brix on UnsplashPersecuted church
Following recent earthquakes, a study highlights the difficulties the Latin Catholic Church in Turkey faces due to its lack of legal personality. The author explains that since 1453, the community was not recognized as a Millet to avoid Ottoman interference in spiritual authority. He argues that creating a general legal entity today would be a historical error. Instead, he proposes a concordat with the Turkish Republic to protect approximately seventy remaining religious institutes. The article also distinguishes the independent lay association managing a significant religious site in Ephesus from the broader church structure.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by asamw on UnsplashPersecuted church
A report reveals that Yemen serves as a critical financial hub for Islamic State Khorasan Province. The group channels tens of thousands of dollars monthly from affiliates in Somalia to networks in Pakistan and Turkey using cryptocurrency. This funding allows the group to procure weapons and drones, facilitating attacks on Christians. The report highlights that the group targets Christians due to theological differences and recommends stricter scrutiny of crypto platforms and joint operations to dismantle income sources to prevent further persecution.
A small shopkeeper in a city in southeastern Turkey is facing legal troubles. Previously known locally for resembling a famous celebrity, her daily life is now marked by judicial issues unrelated to her lookalike status. According to La Croix, ordinary citizens in Turkey are increasingly affected by repression. This shopkeeper's situation highlights the broader impact on regular people in the region. The outlet reports that these legal challenges are distinct from any copyright disputes associated with her famous double. This case illustrates the difficulties faced by individuals in this part of the country.
In southeastern Turkey, local officials demolished buildings owned by Assyrian Christians before court rulings were issued. A municipal mayor signed the orders, drawing criticism from Assyrian advocacy groups. Simultaneously, a regional court rejected a family's request to revert their surname to its Assyrian origin, citing national naming laws. These actions are viewed as part of a broader pattern of religious persecution and intimidation against the Assyrian-Caldean community in the area, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding cultural identity and property rights under current regulations.
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Authorities in Turkey have expelled roughly 200 missionaries and their families recently, leaving local congregations without leadership. A senior pastor noted that while empowering locals is beneficial long-term, the immediate effects are harsh. Clergy currently endure state pressure, attacks from radical factions, and exhaustion. Nevertheless, the pastor affirmed that churches within the country continue to expand despite these severe obstacles. The report urges readers to understand the ongoing persecution of Christians in the region and to assist in developing local leadership training programs to sustain the faith community under such intense scrutiny.
International Christian Concern released a report analyzing how Islamic State Khorasan Province funds attacks on Christians. The study examines financial networks enabling violence in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Türkiye, and Europe. It argues that ISIS frames persecution as retaliation for Western military actions. The report cites former FATF President Je-Yoon Shin, stating that disrupting these financial channels is essential to limiting terrorist capabilities. The findings aim to help policymakers and advocacy groups understand the connection between Islamist financing and the targeting of Christian communities in the Khorasan region.
Turkey has appointed a government trustee to Halk TV, one of the few nationwide news channels not aligned with the ruling party. The outlet Agos reports that the channel’s ownership was transferred to the Savings Deposit Insurance Fund following an investigation into its owner. This move coincides with the shutdown of the T24 website and widespread social media blocks. Agos argues the action targets press freedom just as political scandals and economic pressures mount ahead of the 2028 elections. The article notes that Halk TV has provided a platform for opposition voices, particularly the CHP, and criticizes the intensifying pressure on independent media in Turkey.
A high criminal court in Turkey rejected a prominent human rights defender’s application for a retrial, disregarding a European Court of Human Rights ruling that deemed his detention unlawful. The domestic court argued that local legal remedies had not been exhausted and warned that accepting the international decision would interfere with national judicial sovereignty. The individual has been held since 2017 on charges related to past protests and coup attempts. Although the European court previously ordered his release citing rights violations, Turkish authorities have not complied with the mandate.
Authorities in Azerbaijan arrested 37 individuals in various cities following protests against new school uniform regulations that effectively ban headscarves. Officials stated the detainees disrupted school operations and damaged property. The government introduced these secular dress codes in late September, barring attire that conflicts with the secular nature of education. While the rule does not explicitly mention hijabs, it has prevented veiled students and teachers from entering classrooms. The crackdown has drawn criticism from Turkish officials, including an advisor to President Erdogan, who called the ban unacceptable. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan's ruling party defended the measures. (Radio Farda)
A court in Turkey postponed the hearing against sociologist Güllistan Yarkın until January 2027. The trial stems from her doctoral dissertation, which authorities allege violates penal code articles regarding insult to Turkishness. Defense lawyers argued the charges infringe on academic freedom and requested acquittal. The court maintained an arrest warrant against Yarkın, who is currently a visiting researcher at a university in Germany. The indictment cites passages discussing sensitive historical and ethnic issues. Although prosecutors previously issued a non-prosecution decision regarding terrorist propaganda, the case proceeds. Yarkın states the state seeks to control knowledge production.
International Christian Concern reports that historic Christian populations in the Middle East are shrinking due to sustained emigration. The outlet notes that while security threats exist, economic instability, unemployment, and political exclusion drive families to leave countries such as Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey, Israel, and Palestine. Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Raï warned in 2025 that this migration reduces regional pluralism. The article argues that losing these communities erases living cultural heritage and daily religious coexistence, leaving behind empty churches and monuments without their original inhabitants.
A young adult in Turkey has started attending church regularly after turning eighteen. Previously, minors required parental permission to attend services or obtain a Bible. Now that he has reached the age of majority, he participates actively and assists with church activities. The organization describes him as a believer who is still learning, noting that his commitment encourages others. The report highlights his transition to independent religious practice and expresses hope for his continued spiritual growth and eventual baptism.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Niko Lewman on UnsplashGood news
In a coastal city in Turkey, Christian believers distributed free henna tattoos in a public park. The designs depicted the biblical story of the woman at the well. These activities served as conversation starters with young adults facing issues like depression, self-harm, and identity struggles. The group reports that dozens of individuals heard the gospel message during these interactions. Believers emphasized God's love and the significance of Jesus' sacrifice. The outreach notes that participants were encouraged to read the Bible or visit churches. The initiative aims to connect with those seeking spiritual support in the region, using creative methods to share their faith safely.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Igor Sporynin on UnsplashGood news
In Turkey, a new believer has recently begun studying the New Testament with the assistance of his son. This individual first became interested in Christianity during the 1990s and has now professed faith in Jesus. He expressed excitement about reading the Bible and meeting with local believers to study together. The International Mission Board reports that he is eager to grow in his knowledge of God. Local church members are encouraged to welcome him and support his new journey in faith. This development marks a significant step for him in his spiritual life within the country.
In a city in Turkey, a couple faced pressure to terminate a pregnancy due to predicted birth defects. Rejecting the local cultural norm of abortion, they chose to keep the child and shared their Christian faith with the medical staff. Recently, they delivered a healthy baby with no defects, surprising the doctor who had recommended the termination. The IMB reports that the family's decision has led to positive reactions from those who heard the story. The outlet highlights this event as a testimony of faith and a potential opportunity for evangelism in the region.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Igor Sporynin on UnsplashGood news
According to the International Mission Board, a young man studying at a university in Turkey professed faith in Christ this summer. The conversion occurred after witnessing by visiting believers. He is originally from a neighboring country. He is currently studying the Bible with a local fellowship and has started baptism classes. The organization highlights his spiritual journey and requests prayers for his continued growth in the faith within the region.
In Turkey, a man has engaged with Christian believers since the summer of 2025. He has attended local church services and participated in deep theological discussions. He acknowledges Jesus as the Son of God and expresses a desire to understand Christian life, though he has not yet committed fully. The International Mission Board reports his spiritual journey, noting he is still evaluating the implications of discipleship. This account highlights the ongoing process of faith exploration among individuals in the region.
The Ecumenical Patriarch visited Rome, holding private meetings with the Pope and the Major Archbishop of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. These audiences received little publicity, reflecting the normalized state of Catholic-Orthodox relations after decades of leadership. Despite his advanced age, the patriarch remains a key figure in fostering unity between the churches, even as the Russian Orthodox Church creates division within Eastern Christianity. The low-key nature of the visits highlights the routine status of these diplomatic efforts.
Authorities in Turkey have expelled roughly 200 missionaries and their families recently, leaving local congregations without leadership. A senior pastor noted that while empowering locals is beneficial long-term, the immediate effects are harsh. Clergy currently endure state pressure, attacks from radical factions, and exhaustion. Nevertheless, the pastor affirmed that churches within the country continue to expand despite these severe obstacles. The report urges readers to understand the ongoing persecution of Christians in the region and to assist in developing local leadership training programs to sustain the faith community under such intense scrutiny.
A Christian cultural channel initiated experimental 24-hour satellite broadcasting to reach Persian-speaking audiences across a region including Iran, Afghanistan, and parts of Turkey and Europe. The network utilizes artificial intelligence for roughly ninety percent of its content, which includes music, news, and biblical storytelling. This approach aims to deliver traditional Christian messages through modern digital formats to engage younger generations. The programming is distributed via specific satellite services and various online platforms, focusing on digital outreach in areas where Christians may face significant challenges.
A coalition of 81 Christian organizations released a letter urging European Union leaders to strengthen climate commitments during an upcoming international conference in a city in Turkey. The group, led by a European alliance, cites severe summer heatwaves and wildfires across multiple European nations as evidence of the intensifying climate crisis. The signatories demand accelerated fossil fuel phase-outs, just transition financing, increased support for vulnerable nations, and clear goals for agroecological food systems. They warn against weakening EU ambitions due to short-term global crises, emphasizing the need to protect future generations and marginalized communities. The letter is addressed to top EU officials and the European Parliament delegation.
A Christian ministry in Türkiye supports Syrian refugees in border camps with food, housing, and spiritual care. Missionary workers report that families endure poverty and harsh tent conditions. The group distributes relief supplies like clothing and Bibles in local languages. Reports indicate the ministry has facilitated conversions and baptisms among displaced individuals, some of whom move to urban areas for work. The organization continues providing emotional and spiritual support to those affected by the conflict, ensuring basic needs are met while offering religious guidance to vulnerable populations in the region.
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