The jail sentence for British nationals Craig and Lindsay Foreman, arrested in Iran on spying charges, has reportedly been extended by two years, according to their family. The couple, who were detained in January while on a motorcycle journey through Iran, have been in prison for 18 months.
Their family stated that a letter asking them to end a hunger strike was not delivered, and that medication and basic supplies have been withheld. Concerns about the Foremans' health have intensified, with reports indicating Craig Foreman has lost significant weight and Lindsay Foreman is experiencing dizziness and tremors.
Two United Nations human rights experts recently called for the couple's release, citing "grave irregularities" in their proceedings. UN special rapporteurs Dr. Alice Edwards and Mai Sato stated that the Foremans "appear to have been wrongfully detained, prosecuted on highly questionable grounds, and sentenced after proceedings that failed to meet basic fair trial guarantees."
The UK's Foreign Office has advised against all travel to Iran since 2022, warning that individuals can be detained based solely on their British passport or connections to the UK. The department has stated its priority is the couple's safe return and welfare.
The family welcomed the recent appointment of the UK's first envoy dedicated to supporting British nationals detained abroad in complex cases. Alistair Burt, a former Conservative MP and Middle East minister, will fill the role. The Foremans' family expressed hope that his appointment will positively impact their case.