Iran Separates Detained British Couple After Arrest

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Two British nationals detained in Iran on espionage charges have reportedly been transferred to separate prisons following claims of mistreatment in custody.

Craig and Lindsay Foreman, both in their 50s, were arrested in January while travelling through Iran on a round-the-world motorbike trip. Despite explicit warnings from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the couple entered Iran on 30 December 2024 from Armenia.

They visited Tabriz, Tehran, and Isfahan before arriving in Kerman, where they were detained. Iranian authorities accused them of spying while “posing as tourists”, although no public evidence has been provided to substantiate the charges.

The Foremans had previously appeared on Channel 4’s A New Life in the Sun and had publicly acknowledged the risks in a social media post. They stated they were aware of the FCDO’s advice but had chosen to proceed, citing a belief in the goodwill of people around the world.

For several months, the couple’s whereabouts remained unclear. However, recent information from the Hengaw Organisation for Human Rights suggests that Lindsay has been moved to Qarchak Prison, while Craig is now being held at Greater Tehran Prison, facilities located more than 20 miles apart.

According to Hengaw, both were subjected to coercive tactics, including physical and psychological pressure aimed at securing forced confessions during their initial detention in Kerman. These claims have heightened concern among their family members, who have not had direct contact with them since their arrest.

The FCDO has long warned against all travel to Iran for British nationals, citing a real risk of arbitrary detention and a lack of due legal process. At the time of their arrest, the FCDO confirmed it was “a matter of significant concern” and continues to liaise with the Iranian authorities.

The couple’s decision to ignore official travel advice has reignited discussion over the responsibility of British travellers, particularly in high-risk regions. While many have expressed sympathy over their situation, their actions have raised questions over judgment and accountability in foreign policy-sensitive areas.

In a recent interview, Richard Ratcliffe, husband of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who was also detained in Iran, called on the UK Government to act with urgency. “My heart goes out to them, and I hope they are not in for a long ordeal,” he said. “I hope the government can respond more promptly than it did in our case.”

The UK Government has stated it is providing consular support to the Foremans’ family and remains in contact with Iranian authorities.