Across the Middle East and North Africa, Christians live and serve in some of the most dangerous environments in the world. In nations fractured by war, militias, and government crackdowns, following Jesus often comes at a high cost—sometimes even life itself.

For organizations like NEO US, this reality is not a signal to withdraw. It is a call to follow the Holy Spirit wherever He leads. Recent updates from Libya, Syria, and Iran reveal both the weight of discipleship in these places and the perseverance of believers who continue to plant churches, lead Bible studies, and bear witness to Christ despite daily threats.

Libya: The Martyrdom of Fahed

In July, the NEO community was shaken by the loss of Fahed, a 42-year-old Libyan leader overseeing five Discovery Bible Study groups. Fahed was a husband, a father, and a committed follower of Jesus.

On a morning marked by renewed fighting in the capital, Fahed was stopped near his home and executed. Whether he was targeted specifically for his faith or caught in the broader violence remains unclear. What is certain is that he leaves behind a wife and children who also follow Christ—now grieving, yet continuing in faith.

Fahed’s death reflects the ongoing danger Christians face in Libya. Since the fall of Gaddafi, the country has been torn apart by rival governments and armed militias. Extremist groups thrive in the instability, making Christian ministry both risky and unpredictable.

Yet the church continues to grow. What began among Egyptian construction workers and Sudanese refugees has spread to Libyan nationals. Today, more than twenty Libyan believers lead small groups across the country.

As Nadim Costa has said, “The more chaos we see in a region, the more God shows up.” Fahed’s life and legacy stand as a reminder that faith often takes root where the cost is greatest.

Syria: Ministry Under Fire

In Syria, violence can erupt without warning. A recent confrontation at a checkpoint escalated into widespread fighting between Druze and Sunni Bedouin groups, drawing in both Syrian government forces and Israel. Entire communities were caught in the crossfire—including NEO teams serving in the Druze mountains.

Nadim described conversations with leaders on the ground:

“It’s extremely hard to hear team members asking that we take care of their wives and children if they don’t make it through the day. We pray together and wait for another day. We need the mercy of God.”

These words reflect the fragility of ministry in Syria. The Druze community—long marginalized and caught between powerful forces—has become an unexpected place of gospel growth. Leaders serving there continue planting seeds of faith in an environment where survival itself is uncertain.

For Syrian believers, following Jesus often means preparing for loss. Yet they continue to minister, pray for peace, and seek safe passage for their families when necessary. Their courage echoes the resolve of the early church, where faith advanced under constant threat.

Iran: Faith Amid Bombings and Nationalism

In Iran, Christians face a different but equally severe pressure. Bombings in cities like Tehran and Isfahan have displaced families, including members of the underground church. Even as homes are lost, believers continue to gather discreetly, share Scripture through secure platforms, and pray for one another.

At the same time, the government has promoted stricter expressions of religious identity as a form of patriotism. State-controlled media frequently accuse Christians of aligning with foreign powers, while courts portray believers as threats to society. In this climate, following Christ is seen not only as a spiritual choice but as an act of betrayal.

Yet beneath the nationalism, many Iranians are deeply disillusioned. Economic collapse, corruption, and broken promises have left people searching for something more. In this environment, testimonies of dreams and visions of Jesus continue to emerge.

One believer shared:

“There is so much uncertainty in our country. Please pray that it would not drive people to despair, but that the Holy Spirit would move across the region. That is where true peace comes from.”

A Shared Reality: Risk and Obedience

Though Libya, Syria, and Iran differ in context, one reality unites them: following Jesus in these places requires embracing risk. Whether through martyrdom, daily uncertainty, or underground worship, the gospel advances through lives willingly laid down.

The words of the apostle Paul ring true:

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”