The family of a British couple imprisoned in Iran on espionage charges has urged the UK government to take stronger action to secure their release. Craig and Lindsay Foreman, from East Sussex, were detained in 2025 while undertaking a motorcycle journey around the world. In February, the couple was sentenced to ten years in prison following a conviction for spying, allegations they have consistently denied.

The Foremans’ family has criticized the current level of government intervention, calling for the UK to formally designate the couple’s incarceration as arbitrary detention—a status applied when individuals are held without legal justification. Lindsay’s son and Craig’s stepson, Joe Bennett, emphasized the need for decisive measures, stating that it is now imperative for the Foreign Secretary to take the necessary steps to bring the couple back to the UK.

On Tuesday, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband met with relatives of the Foremans, reaffirming the government’s condemnation of the prison sentences. A government spokesperson described the convictions as “completely appalling and totally unjustifiable.” However, the family argues that stronger diplomatic or legal actions are required to resolve the situation.

Iran has accused the Foremans of spying, charges widely regarded by the UK and human rights groups as unfounded and politically motivated. The couple’s detention has drawn attention amid ongoing concerns over the treatment of foreign nationals in Iran, where accusations of espionage have frequently led to lengthy imprisonments. As the Foremans serve their sentences, their family continues to press the UK government for enhanced engagement to secure their release.