As conflict intensifies across parts of the Middle East, SAT-7 is responding in real...
As the intensifying crisis in the Middle East causes widespread disruption across the region, SAT-7 is rapidly adapting its services and content – even launching on a new satellite to reach viewers cut off from other platforms in Iran.
Since February 26, there has been disruption to the Yahsat satellite service – used by SAT-7 PARS and numerous independent Persian channels to broadcast into Iran. Several viewers in the country confirmed to us at the end of last week that they could not watch SAT‑7 PARS via satellite and urged us to connect to an alternative provider.
“We need you now more than ever; please connect to [other] frequencies so that we can use your network,” wrote one Iranian viewer on Instagram.
Following the launch of strikes on Iran on Saturday (February 28), the country was again plunged into a full internet blackout, leaving most Iranians completely cut-off from the rest of the world.
But as of Wednesday evening (March 4), SAT-7 PARS is on air again, having secured an alternative service on the TürkmenÄlem satellite (also known as MonacoSat),* which provides coverage across the same footprint as Yahsat.
“The current conflict in Iran has created an unprecedented situation for us at SAT-7 PARS and it has been our highest priority this week to find an alternative means of connecting with our viewers there,” said Panayiotis Keenan, SAT-7 PARS Executive Director. “They have told us that they need our programs at this exceptionally difficult and distressing time, so we are relieved to have found a solution quickly and are grateful to the Lord that we are back with our viewers!”
Once the Yahsat connection is fully restored, SAT-7 PARS intends to broadcast from both feeds in parallel for a period while they assess the performance and stability of both satellite services.
The new frequency details are being promoted extensively across the channel’s social media platforms and other Iranian networks, and a continuous on-screen message will be broadcast via satellite to ensure viewers are fully informed.
SAT-7 channels have also been changing programming schedules and adapting content to reflect the worsening situation across the region and needs of viewers for spiritual and emotional support. Both SAT-7 PARS and SAT-7 ARABIC have been increasing prayer and worship content.
SAT-7 PARS has reintroduced war-related special programs produced during the 12-day war last year, and created short-form prayers for different Iranian cities affected by the conflict.
All films scheduled on SAT-7 ARABIC this week are being replaced with prayer and worship, focusing on peace and hope. Short clips addressing war trauma are being aired between programs to help people understand the different ways that conflict can impact individuals both during crises and after the danger has passed.
Programs are creating space for prayer and encouraging viewers of all ages across the region to participate. Young viewers of the SAT-7 KIDS program In His Image prayed live on air during Monday’s episode.
“Thank you, Lord, for loving me. I pray for peace for all the countries that are at war,” said Jiovani, a boy from Egypt. “I pray you give peace to all the people and all the countries around us, no matter who they are. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.”
“I pray for my aunt who is in the Emirates where the war is happening,” said Jolina. I ask you also to pray for me that all the bad thoughts in my head will go away. Amen.”
“I pray for all my friends that the Lord be with them during the wars, and I want to say to them not to fear anything because the Lord Jesus would never leave us. There’s a verse that says, ‘Fear not, for I am with you,’” said Sara.
Meanwhile, SAT-7 ARABIC has introduced a live nightly prayer program from its Cairo studio this week. Special Prayer Coverage: My Heart Will Not Fear is airing Tuesday-Friday, 10:00-11:00 p.m. on satellite television and streamed live on social media.
The program is hosting pastors from across the region via video call who are offering prayers, biblical reflections, and encouragement to viewers during these difficult days.
In the first broadcast on Tuesday (March 3), Pastor Ezzat Shaker from Egypt was a studio guest. He prayed:
“Lord, you said, ‘Come to me all you who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest.’ Lord, I come to you asking for peace for the whole world. You are the Prince of Peace. The hearts of kings are in your hands. Guide them to peace, love, and humanity. Teach us to hold onto you at all times. Lord, stop the wars. You are the king. Say your word and all wars will stop. To you be the glory, amen.”
*MonacoSat (Yahsat direction)
frequency: 11420
pol: Vertical
symbol rate: 27500
FEC: 2/3
In 2024, at least 81% of your gift went directly to fund programs building up women, children, and families across the Middle East.
Login to your ministry partner self-service account.
