British Family Urges Government Action for Detained Parents in Iran

The family of a British couple detained in Iran is calling on the government to intensify efforts for their release following the recent liberation of another British couple held by the Taliban. **Lindsay** and **Craig Foreman**, both aged 52, were arrested in January while on a motorcycle tour around the world, facing charges of espionage, which they deny.

The couple has been imprisoned for nine months in separate facilities, with Craig held in **Evin Prison** and Lindsay in **Qarchak Prison**. Their situation mirrors that of **Peter** and **Barbie Reynolds**, who were freed after being held in Afghanistan. The Reynolds were released on **February 9, 2023**, following negotiations led by **Qatar**.

Their son, **Joe Bennett**, expressed hope that the Reynolds’ release will prompt the UK authorities to act more decisively in securing his parents’ freedom. “We are extremely relieved to hear about the Reynolds. They and their family have endured a terrible ordeal,” he stated. “No one should be held hostage abroad, not them and not our loved ones, Lindsay and Craig Foreman.”

Lindsay and Craig’s conditions in Iranian prisons have raised serious concerns. Craig shares a room with 57 other men in cramped conditions, while Lindsay is among 70 women in a small area of just **140 square metres**. Despite the harsh environment, the couple reportedly maintains a strong spirit, managing to communicate briefly once a week.

The Foreman family has urged the UK government, particularly **Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper**, to take immediate action to resolve what they describe as a “hostage situation.” They entered Iran on **December 31, 2022**, intending to spend five days there before traveling to **Australia**. The couple had valid visas, a licensed guide, and a pre-approved itinerary for their journey.

Communication with the couple ceased on **January 3, 2023**, when they failed to check into their hotel in **Kerman** the following day. On **February 13, 2023**, Iranian state media announced their arrest on espionage charges, a claim the couple has consistently denied.

As the situation develops, the Foreman family continues to advocate for increased government support to ensure the safe return of Lindsay and Craig to their home in **East Sussex**. The emotional toll on the family is significant, with Joe Bennett emphasizing the need for a focused governmental response. “We hope this will now put the spotlight on our UK government to do more to ensure the release of Lindsay and Craig,” he concluded.