British Man's Iran Jail Sentence Extended
A British man imprisoned in Iran on espionage charges has had an additional two years added to his original 10-year sentence, according to his family.
Craig Foreman and his wife, Lindsay Foreman, were detained in January 2025 while traveling through Iran on a motorcycle journey from Europe to Australia. Both have consistently denied the espionage allegations.
In February, both were sentenced to 10 years in prison. However, Craig Foreman's relatives reported that he was informed of an extension to his sentence after speaking to the media from his cell in Tehran's Evin prison.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) stated it is "urgently following up with the Iranian authorities about the reported increased sentence."
"We understand he was told he was being taken to see his lawyer but was instead brought before a judge and informed of the additional sentence," said Joe Bennett, Lindsay Foreman's son and family spokesperson.
"We didn't think we could be any more shocked at their appalling treatment, but in this case we are absolutely flabbergasted," Bennett added, noting that Craig was denied legal representation, a translator, and the opportunity to defend himself.
Craig and Lindsay Foreman, residents of East Sussex, have been on hunger strike since May after prison authorities prevented them from contacting their families.
The family has expressed growing concern about their health and is appealing to Iranian authorities for mercy and their release.
"My mum and Craig are 18 months into an ordeal they should never have known," Bennett said. "They are weak, they are hungry, and now Craig is being punished simply for being heard. To add two more years to an innocent man's sentence, in secret and with no chance to defend himself, is a flagrant abuse of the most basic rights any person is owed."
Last week, the US-based human rights organization HRANA reported that Craig Foreman had lost approximately 16kg (35lb), and Lindsay Foreman was experiencing dizziness and body tremors.
The family also stated that a letter requesting the couple to end their hunger strike was not delivered, nor were medication and other essential supplies.
International Calls for Release
Last month, two United Nations human rights experts urged Iran to release the Foremans, citing serious irregularities in their legal proceedings.
"Lindsay and Craig Foreman should not be in prison," said UN special rapporteurs Dr. Alice Edwards and Mai Sato. "They appear to have been wrongfully detained, prosecuted on highly questionable grounds, and sentenced after proceedings that failed to meet basic fair trial guarantees."
UK Government Response and Travel Advisory
The UK Foreign Office has advised against all travel to Iran since 2022, warning that individuals can be detained solely for holding a British passport or having UK connections.
The government has described the Foremans' original 10-year sentences as "completely appalling and totally unjustifiable" and continues to provide consular support, emphasizing the couple's health and welfare as a priority.
Officials have communicated to Iranian authorities that any increase in Craig Foreman's sentence is unacceptable if confirmed.
New UK Envoy for Detained Nationals
The family has welcomed the recent appointment of the UK's first envoy dedicated to supporting British nationals detained abroad in complex cases involving welfare, due process, or human rights concerns.
The role will be undertaken by former Conservative MP and Middle East minister Alistair Burt.
The Foreman family expressed hope that his appointment will positively impact their case and look forward to meeting him.
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