A British couple detained in Iran have started a hunger strike, with their son describing it as a “cry out for help” after feeling let down by the UK government. Lindsay and Craig Foreman, from East Sussex, were arrested in January while on a motorcycle tour and later charged with espionage, which they deny. They are being held in Tehran’s Evin Prison.
Their son, Joe Bennett, said he spoke to his mother on Tuesday for seven and a half minutes, during which she told him “not eating was the only power she’s got”. He said she felt “lost and let down by the government here as well as the authorities in Iran”. The couple appeared in court last month, but Ms Foreman said it “had not gone well” and they expected a verdict rather than another appearance.
Mr Bennett expressed deep concern over the UK government’s approach, saying there is a “diplomatic stalemate” where both sides are waiting for the other to move. The family met Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper in October, but Mr Bennett said “each side is waiting for the other to move first”.
The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warns against all travel to Iran due to the risk of arrest. An FCDO spokesperson said they are “deeply concerned” and continue to raise the case with Iranian authorities, providing consular assistance. The couple entered Iran with valid visas and a licensed guide, and were due to travel to Kerman before they disappeared.
