On June 5, 2026, a 55-year-old Christian preacher identified as "Arif Salam," whose name has been changed for security reasons, heard a knock at his door while working as a bicycle mechanic in Bangladesh. A group of men asked him why he did not perform Namaz, the daily Islamic prayers. Salam calmly explained that he follows Jesus Christ. The men immediately attacked him brutally, leaving him with injuries all over his body, including his head.
The attackers belong to Jamaat-e-Islami, a radical Islamic political party that has been growing in influence since the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) came to power in February 2026. Salam and his family are dealing with the trauma, anxiety and fear caused by the attack. The organization Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSI) learned of the case and worked with a local pastor to provide urgent medical care and support for the family. The organization also reported the situation to local police and is providing legal advice to the family.
The attack on Salam is not an isolated incident. A skills development center for Christian young people in southwestern Bangladesh was forced to close by an Islamic political group. In the north of the country, a woman who leads a discipleship class for women faces repression from Islamic leaders. Although the BNP says it is trying to ensure stability for religious minorities, its efforts have proved insufficient in the face of political groups such as Jamaat. Bangladesh currently ranks 33rd on the worldwide list of the most dangerous countries in which to be a Christian.
Pray for the physical and emotional recovery of Arif Salam and his family. Intercede for the police investigation to move forward and for those responsible to be held accountable. Cry out to the Lord for the protection of Christians in Bangladesh, especially those actively sharing the gospel in Muslim communities. Ask for wisdom for the organizations supporting persecuted believers in this country, and pray that the seed of the gospel will continue to grow despite opposition.
