A British couple detained in Iran since January are experiencing seriously deteriorating health conditions in prison, according to their family. Lindsay and Craig Foreman from East Sussex were arrested during a motorcycle tour around the world and later charged with espionage, allegations they deny.
Lindsay Foreman has been placed on a drip in prison whilst her partner Craig has suffered multiple rounds of illness without adequate medical care. The couple's family describe their condition as increasingly alarming.
Mounting health crisis
Lindsay's son Joe Bennett told BBC News there are "real concerns" about both detainees' wellbeing. "Craig is constantly ill, multiple rounds of stomach bugs, flu, dental problems, without the correct medical care," Bennett said.
He added that his mother "was on a drip last week, unsure as to why, but obviously very, very concerning for us as a family." The lack of proper medical attention has become a critical issue for the detained pair.
Court proceedings shrouded in secrecy
The couple face a court appearance on Saturday in Iran, but their family express deep concern that the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office appears uninformed about the legal proceedings. The Foremans were "suddenly whisked" to a courtroom in Tehran last month, yet relatives say they still have "no news on what happened" during that hearing.
This lack of transparency has left the family in the dark about the couple's legal situation and potential outcomes. The secrecy surrounding the court process adds to their mounting anxiety.
Official warnings and diplomatic efforts
The FCDO warns all British and British-Iranian nationals against travelling to Iran due to a "significant risk of arrest, questioning or detention". A spokeswoman previously stated the department remains "deeply concerned by reports that two British nationals have been charged with espionage in Iran".
The government continues to "raise this case directly with the Iranian authorities" while providing consular assistance and maintaining "close contact with their family members". The diplomatic efforts highlight the serious nature of the couple's detention.
Sources used: "BBC News" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
