Detained Iranian Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani is alive but still in imminent danger of being executed for his faith by authorities, the American Center for Law and Justice said Monday.
ACLJ Executive Director Jordan Sekulow confirmed earlier in the day that the Christian leader had not been killed yet, although an execution order has been signed for "death by hanging" for the pastor.
"It is critical that we keep international pressure on Iran to spare this Christian pastor's life," Sekulow posted on the ACLJ website.
"Please continue to pray and share his story, as we continue fighting to save his life," he added.
Sign the online petition urging more pressure on Iran to release Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani and dismiss his death sentence
The ACLJ has also started a Twitter campaign to spread the word about Nadarkani's case. @CBNNews has joined the effort. Learn how you can "Tweet for Youcef" here.
A lower court signed Nadarkhani's death warrant last week, sparking a worldwide outcry for his release.
In less than a week, more than 145,000 people have signed a petition by the ACLJ in hopes that it would help free Nadarkhani.
Lawmakers in Congress will also vote Wednesday on a resolution to condemn Iran for its actions against the pastor and call for his immediate release.
Nadarkhani, 34, has been in custody on charges of apostasy since 2009.