Family of British couple detained in Iran urges UK to end 'stalemate' ahead of Christmas in Evin Prison

The family of Lindsay and Craig Foreman, a British couple detained in Iran on espionage charges, say they are preparing to spend Christmas in Tehran's Evin prison as the case unfolds. The couple, from East Sussex, were arrested January 3 in Kerman during a motorcycle tour around the world and were later charged with espionage; they deny the allegations.

Joe Bennett, the couple's son, told Sky News that the family has support from the Foreign Office and has met Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper. He criticized what he called a policy of waiting for the judicial process to play out, describing it as a "circus" and saying the sentence was expected two months ago but has not been delivered. He said the government should defend its citizens rather than stay silent, arguing that they are facing a state-level crime rather than a petty offense.

Mr Bennett said the Foreign Office has indicated it does not want to be seen as interfering with Iran's judicial process, but he argued enough time has passed. He described the situation as a stalemate, with Iran waiting for the UK to move and the UK waiting for Iran to move, leaving his parents and their family in limbo.

He cited conditions in prison. He said his mother is suffering from skin and weight loss due to poor ventilation; he described the cell as extremely dirty and said the kitchen is filled with rats. The couple have lost weight and are eating rice and gristle daily, with little opportunity to exercise, and are in an overcrowded, cramped environment.

As family members prepare for Christmas apart from the Foremans, Bennett expressed guilt and said his mother is unable to celebrate. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office warns British and dual-national travelers against visiting Iran because of a significant risk of arrest or detention. The Foremans had been traveling from Armenia to Pakistan via Iran when authorities intercepted them.

In October, a Foreign Office spokesperson said: "We are deeply concerned by reports that Craig and Lindsay Foreman have been charged with espionage in Iran. We continue to raise this case directly with the Iranian authorities. The FCDO are providing consular assistance and remain in close contact with their family members."