The husband of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has launched a scathing attack on the UK government, accusing ministers of "broken promises" and "empty words" in their failure to secure his wife's release from Iran.
Richard Ratcliffe delivered an emotional plea outside the Foreign Office in London, where he condemned what he called "six years of excuses" from successive governments. His wife, a British-Iranian dual national, has been detained in Tehran since 2016 on spying charges she vehemently denies.
'They've Failed Us'
"The government keeps telling us they're doing everything they can," Ratcliffe told reporters. "But where are the results? My wife remains imprisoned while ministers offer the same tired reassurances."
He revealed that recent diplomatic efforts had stalled, with Iranian authorities refusing even basic consular access. "They won't let British officials see her, won't allow proper medical care - it's inhumane," he said, his voice breaking.
Growing Frustration
The case has become increasingly contentious in Westminster, with cross-party MPs expressing frustration at the government's handling. Critics argue that the UK's £400 million debt to Iran - relating to an arms deal in the 1970s - should be settled as potential leverage.
"This isn't just about money," Ratcliffe insisted. "It's about political will. Other countries have managed to get their citizens home. Why can't Britain?"
Government Response
A Foreign Office spokesperson said: "We continue to press Iran at every opportunity for Nazanin's immediate release. The Foreign Secretary raised her case most recently on 12 October."
However, Ratcliffe dismissed such statements as "recycled talking points", demanding concrete action before his wife faces another Christmas in captivity.
