One Iranian convert to Christianity was injected with a radioactive material before being released so that he might die a slow death. Pastors, church leaders and converts are frequently targeted for assassination and are kept under heavy surveillance. Pakistan Muslims from within the Pakistani government and Islamic extremist groups continue in their attempt to Islamize all Pakistan. The blasphemy laws are frequently used to settle grudges held by Muslims against Christians, using the mandated punishment of death as a means to retaliate against Christians who have been wrongfully accused of having blasphemed the Prophet Mohammed or the Koran, the Muslims' holy book. A number of Christians are in prison or are under threat of being charged under Pakistan's blasphemy laws.
Christian prisoners report having been subjected to harsh treatment, including severe torture.
There have been several suspicious deaths of Christians while in detention. While in court, an attempt was made on his life by Muslim gunmen. Due to international protests, the courts have yet to carry out the death sentence against a Christian. However, increasing pressure and threats against the judiciary by Muslim extremists heightens concern that the government may allow the execution of Ayub Masih to be carried out. However, should a Christian murder a Muslim, the Christian would be sentenced to death.