British Man’s Sentence in Iran Extended Amid Hunger Strike

Craig Foreman, a 52-year-old British man, has had his prison sentence in Iran extended by two years. Initially sentenced to ten years over espionage charges viewed as unfounded, this extension comes as both he and his wife engage in a hunger strike. They were arrested in January 2025 during a motorcycle trip from Europe to Asia, just days before a conflict involving the U.S. and Israel began in Iran. Accused of spying, both have spent over 18 months in Tehran’s Evin prison.

According to Joe Bennett, Lindsay’s son, the extension occurred after Foreman spoke to the media. He was misled into meeting with a judge instead of his lawyer, where he was informed of the new sentence without legal representation or translation.

The British Foreign Office is urgently contacting Iranian authorities about this issue. Craig’s hunger strike began on May 9 with Lindsay joining on May 18. Both are suffering from severe health issues due to their protest without their family’s plea to end the strike reaching them.

Bennett describes the toll the situation has taken on him, noting the constant uncertainty and worry about his mother and stepfather’s wellbeing. Initially barred from phone calls, the Foremans could later speak to family, but since May, contact has ceased yet again. Human Rights Activists News Agency reports that Craig and Lindsay both have significant weight loss and are experiencing health complications.

The allegations of espionage have been strongly denied by the Foremans. British official Hamish Falconer labeled them as innocent tourists, hoping that they will be freed soon.

The family remains aware of the dangers posed by ongoing military actions, with attacks like one on Evin prison adding to their anxiety. Their plea for mercy aligns with calls from U.N. experts, who argue that the detention lacks justifiable grounds.

Recently, the U.K. appointed an envoy for British nationals in complex detentions, aiming for recognition of this case as arbitrary detention. Bennett believes political courage and will are needed for their release, citing historical examples of other Britons held in Iran who gained freedom.