Family urges government action as Sussex couple sentenced in Iran
Lindsay and Craig Foreman have been jailed for alleged espionage in Tehran's Evin prison.
The sentencing of British couple Lindsay and Craig Foreman in Iran has intensified calls from their family for stronger government intervention.
The couple, both aged 53 and from East Sussex, have been jailed for 10 years after their arrest in January 2025 during an around-the-world motorcycle trip.
They face charges of espionage in Tehran's Evin prison, which they deny.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned the sentence as "completely appalling and totally unjustifiable," promising relentless pursuit of their release.
Dame Priti Patel echoed these sentiments, urging Sir Keir Starmer to leverage all available resources for their freedom.
Joe Bennett, Ms. Foreman's son, expressed hope for increased government action following the shift in official tone.
He explained that their detention, ongoing for over a year, has become a political issue, necessitating different responses from the government.
Bennett stressed the importance of public support, noting that it provides energy for those affected, and hopes to meet with Ms. Cooper soon.
He described the sentencing as "devastating" but acknowledged the clarity it brings to their situation.
Daily calls with his mother and stepfather since November have revealed their vulnerable moments, which haunt him.
He reported not receiving a call from them on Thursday, inducing panic over unknown developments.
The couple recently wrote to Iranian authorities about their treatment and spoke to the BBC from Evin prison, seeking to assert their rights.
The family learned of the sentence earlier this week, urging continued strength and resilience despite challenges.