The son of a British couple imprisoned in Iran has launched a fierce criticism against the UK government, labelling its efforts to secure their release as 'very passive'. Craig and Lindsay Foreman, a couple from East Sussex, have been held since January on charges of espionage while on a global motorcycle tour.
A Family's Anguish and Government Inaction
Joe Bennett, the couple's son, has publicly dismissed the spying allegations as baseless, describing the situation as pure 'hostage-taking'. He asserts that his parents are not spies and that the charges are politically motivated, drawing direct parallels to the long-running case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe.
The Foremans were recently reunited in Tehran's notorious Evin prison after a period of separation, a small comfort in their ongoing ordeal. They continue to deny all allegations against them.
Foreign Office Response and Ongoing Concerns
In response to the situation, the Foreign Office has stated it is 'deeply concerned' by the espionage charges levelled against the British nationals. A spokesperson confirmed that consular assistance is being provided and that they remain in close contact with the family.
However, for Mr Bennett, these assurances are not enough. He believes the government's approach lacks the urgency and strength required to bring his parents home, fearing a repeat of the prolonged detentions seen in other high-profile cases involving Iran.
