UN human‑rights experts have called for the immediate release of British nationals Lindsay and Craig Foreman, who are held in Tehran’s Evin prison after being charged with spying for an unnamed state.
Danielle Edwards and Mai Sato say the proceedings were marred by irregularities that undermine the credibility of a 10‑year sentence imposed in February 2025. The foreman couple were arrested when they were passing through Iran on a motorcycle, and they deny any involvement in espionage.
They have launched a hunger strike after communications with family were cut off, a strategy that could render their situation a medical emergency if it continues beyond 30 days. Post‑hunger strike, the UN specialists are urging the Iranian authorities to reconsider the conviction and to apply diplomatic channels to secure a release.
The Foreign Office has pledged to keep pursuing diplomatic avenues to secure the couple’s homecoming, citing the possibility of leveraging their case in any broader reconciliation about Sanctions or trade openings.
Last week the couple’s appeal was dismissed by appellate courts, and their case is now in the Supreme Court of Iran.
In statements with the court of their son Joe Bennett, the couple’s son noted that they were denied despite being denied appeal hearings and that this legal movement remains opaque to the families, who only have had a consular visit since last December.
The home‑based embassy in Tehran is keeping a tight surveillance on the pair’s ordeal while the UK stresses that any diplomatic settlement with Iran must include their release as a central element.
Read more about the situation: British couple lose Iran jail sentence appeal, family says. For related policy insight, click Foreign Office or explore son calls for prison exchange.
