The son of a British couple detained in Iran expressed concern for their safety following the closure of the UK embassy in Tehran amidst widespread anti-regime protests.
Craig and Lindsay Foreman, who were on a global motorcycle journey, were arrested by Iranian authorities in January 2025 on spying charges, which they deny. Their son, Joe Bennett, stated that his parents were in a precarious situation in prison due to the ongoing mass protests in Iran leading to arrests and executions.
Joe mentioned the overcrowding in Iranian prisons due to the high number of arrests during the protests, with his parents describing the jail conditions as “unsafe” and “frightening.”
Concerned about the closure of the UK embassy impacting efforts for his parents’ release, Joe highlighted the challenges they face without access to the embassy as a safe haven.
The government announced the temporary closure of the British Embassy in Tehran, stating that it would operate remotely, affecting consular services.
Despite plans to seek refuge at the embassy if released, Joe expressed uncertainty about his parents’ next steps following the embassy closure. Legal representatives in Tehran have applied for bail on behalf of Craig and Lindsay.
Joe revealed the harsh conditions his parents endure at Evin Prison, including lack of ventilation causing health issues and inadequate medical treatment leading to physical deterioration.
Efforts are ongoing to assess the situation by officials from the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office, with inquiries made for further comments on the matter.