Family say British couple jailed in Iran have lost appeal against convictions
Craig and Lindsay Foreman were jailed after their arrest in January 2025 while travelling through Iran during a round-the-world trip by motorcycle. Photograph: Family Handout/AP View image in fullscreen Craig and Lindsay Foreman were jailed after their arrest in January 2025 while travelling through Iran during a round-the-world trip by motorcycle. Photograph: Family Handout/AP Family say British couple jailed in Iran have lost appeal against convictions Craig and Lindsay Foreman, both aged 53, given 10-year sentences in February after being convicted of espionage A British couple jailed on spying charges in Iran have lost an appeal against their convictions, their family has said. Craig and Lindsay Foreman, both aged 53, were handed 10-year prison sentences in February after being convicted of espionage, which they both deny. The couple’s family, from East Sussex, have claimed they were not permitted to attend their appeal hearing. They were jailed after their arrest in January 2025 while travelling through Iran during a round-the-world trip by motorcycle. Foreman’s son Joe Bennett said “the dial needs to shift” as he explained the pair “don’t understand the process”. He said: “My mum, Lindsay, and stepdad, Craig, were not permitted to attend their own appeal hearing. “We don’t know if they received a proper account of what was argued on their behalf. “We know they had been asked to sign documents … documents they could not read, and they refused, but we don’t know the details of when, or what they were. “Their case has now passed to the supreme court, but we don’t understand the process, the timeline, or what, if anything, will be submitted in their name.” The couple’s family members said Foreman is on day 25 of his hunger strike and his wife is on day 16 of hers at Tehran’s Evin prison, adding that all communication between them has been cut off by Iranian authorities. Bennett said he met officials at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) on Monday but left without “clarity on what pressure is being applied to Tehran”. In a statement, the FCDO said: “We are disappointed by the appeal decision and will continue working to ensure that Craig and Lindsay are returned safely to the UK. “Since their arrest last year, Britain’s ambassador to Tehran, diplomats and officials in London have been working to provide consular assistance. “This includes the ambassador visiting them in prison and facilitating calls with their family back in the UK. “Minister Falconer last met the family on 18 May and the foreign secretary on 17 March. “Both set out to them personally how unjustified and appalling we consider Lindsay and Craig’s incarceration to be, and the action that the UK government is taking to try and secure their release.” The FCDO warns all British and British-Iranian nationals not to travel to Iran because of a “significant risk of arrest, questioning or detention”. Explore more on these topics Iran Foreign, Commonwealth and Develop
Sorry to hear about the Foremans. While I understand the need for national security, its concerning when it infringes on individuals freedoms. We must always ensure justice is fair and just.
But wait, did you know that the Foremans appeal was just another attempt at circumventing the rule of law? Justice in Iran? More like arbitrary detention for dissenters. Its a wonder they didnt get executed instead.
Absolutely heartbreaking. The injustice faced by Craig and Lindsay Foreman highlights the dangers of arbitrary arrests and convictions, especially in authoritarian regimes. Their families deserve better, and hopefully, international pressure will lead to their release.
I understand the families pain, but its crucial to consider the evidence before jumping to conclusions. Arbitrary arrests and convictions do exist, but its equally important to ensure justice for all. Lets hope the Foreman family receives the support and closure they deserve.
While I understand the gravity of national security concerns, its disheartening when it infringes on individual freedoms. We must always strive for a balance where justice is both fair and just.
Despite the setback, the Foreman familys resilience shines through. Their unwavering commitment to justice and freedom is an inspiration. The world must continue to push for accountability and human rights in Iran.