Craig and Lindsay Foreman, a British couple jailed in Iran on espionage charges, have lost their appeal against their convictions, their family has confirmed. The couple, both aged 53, were sentenced to 10 years in prison in February after being found guilty of espionage, allegations they deny.
The Foremans, from East Sussex, were arrested in January 2025 while travelling through Iran on a round-the-world motorcycle trip. Their family has claimed they were not allowed to attend their own appeal hearing. Lindsay Foreman's son, Joe Bennett, expressed frustration, stating: “My mum and stepdad were not permitted to attend their own appeal hearing. We don't know if they received a proper account of what was argued on their behalf.”
Bennett added that the couple had been asked to sign documents they could not read and refused. Their case has now been referred to Iran's Supreme Court, but the family remains unclear about the process and timeline. Craig Foreman is reportedly on day 25 of a hunger strike, and Lindsay on day 16, with all communication between them cut off by Iranian authorities.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) expressed disappointment at the appeal decision and reiterated its commitment to securing the couple's safe return. The FCDO noted that Britain's ambassador to Tehran has visited the couple in prison and facilitated calls with their family. The UK government continues to advise against all travel to Iran due to the risk of arrest or detention.
