British couple detained in Iran charged with espionage

A British couple detained in Iran have been charged with espionage, according to an Iranian judiciary spokesperson.

Craig and Lindsay Foreman were reportedly detained in January while on a motorcycle journey around the world.

The spokesperson for Iran’s judiciary said: “The individuals arrested entered Iran under the guise of tourists and, under the guise of research and investigation work, have collected information in several provinces of the country.

“These individuals were cooperating with covert institutions related to the intelligence services of hostile and Western countries under the guise of research and investigation activities.

“These two British citizens were arrested and placed under the control of the provincial intelligence agencies during a series of coordinated intelligence operations and while collecting information in Kerman city.”

On Saturday, their family said the situation was causing “significant concern”.

The couple were ultimately heading for Australia, having crossed into Iran from Armenia on December 30, according to social media posts.

Mrs Foreman was said to be carrying out a research project as part of the journey, asking people what constitutes a “good life”.

Craig and Lindsay Foreman were on a motorcycle journey around the world. / Credit: Family Handout.

The couple had shared a number of updates from Iran and had been planning to enter Pakistan next.

“To put your minds at rest, we are having the most amazing time in Iran,” they posted on Facebook on January 3.

Before embarking on their travel, Mrs Foreman acknowledged on Instagram that travelling to Iran, against the Foreign Office’s advice, was “slightly scary”.

“Yes, we’re aware of the risks. But we also know the rewards of meeting incredible people, hearing their stories, and seeing the breathtaking landscapes of these regions could far outweigh the fear,” she said.

“From the vast deserts of Iran to the towering peaks of Pakistan, we hope to share the beauty, hospitality, and humanity that often go unnoticed.”

In a statement released by the Foreign Office on Saturday, the couple’s family said: “This unexpected turn of events has caused significant concern for our entire family, and we are deeply focused on ensuring their safety and well-being during this trying time.

“We are actively engaging with the British Government and relevant authorities, working diligently to navigate the complexities of this matter.

“The family are united in our determination to secure their safe return.”

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Iran.

“Having a British passport or connections to the UK can be reason enough for the Iranian authorities to detain you,” the guidance says.

British citizens have previously been held by the Iranian regime.

Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Annosheh Ashoori, who are dual British-Iranian citizens, were released in March 2022 after being held for several years in Iranian prisons.