East Sussex Couple Detained In Iran ‘Losing Hope’, Says Son
- More Radio Writer
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
A woman from East Sussex detained in Iran is reportedly “losing hope” following a recent court appearance, her son has said.
Lindsay Foreman, who was arrested alongside her husband Craig Foreman in January while on a motorcycle world tour, spoke to her son Joe Bennett on Thursday in only their second call since being imprisoned.
The couple, from East Sussex, were later charged with espionage, a claim they strongly deny.
Mr Bennett said a court appearance a week earlier “had not gone well”.
During a Sky News interview, Mr Bennett said the 20-minute phone call facilitated by a lawyer allowed “very little” communication, adding:
“Her spirits were low. Friends and family were previously told to expect a verdict rather than another appearance.”
The couple’s family previously suggested they may be being held as political leverage, and a recent meeting with UK officials reportedly “produced little more than a commitment to wait for more information before deciding on next steps.”
Mr Bennett described the situation as “deeply concerning”.
He continued:
“The British are waiting for a sentence before acting, the Iranians are deciding what sentence to hand down.
"And in the middle of this diplomatic stalemate are my parents, innocent people caught between two systems moving too slowly.”
Ms Foreman was recently transferred to a different prison, initially seen as a positive move, but she is now “isolated among non-English-speaking inmates.”
Craig Foreman reportedly continues to suffer from untreated dental problems and worsening health.
Mr Bennett added:
“The diplomatic waiting game isn’t working, and our family cannot carry on like this.
"The horizon for their freedom feels hard to see, but with public support, I still believe we can get there.”
The UK government continues to provide consular support and raises the case with Iranian authorities, while advising against travel to Iran due to the risk of detention for those with UK connections.