UN Experts Urge Iran to Release Detained British Couple

According to the experts, Lindsay has reportedly gone more than 30 days without food, while Craig has passed more than 20 days, creating serious risks to their health and lives.

United Nations experts have raised urgent concerns for British nationals Lindsay and Craig Foreman, who are reportedly on prolonged hunger strike while detained in Iran. The couple were travelling through Iran by motorcycle with valid visas and a licensed guide when they were detained by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps. They were later prosecuted on espionage charges, which they strongly deny, and sentenced to 10 years in prison earlier this year.

According to the experts, Lindsay has reportedly gone more than 30 days without food, while Craig has passed more than 20 days, creating serious risks to their health and lives.

Experts Question Trial and Detention

The UN experts said the Foremans appear to have been wrongfully detained and convicted after proceedings that failed to meet basic fair trial standards. They raised concerns over reported legal irregularities, including lack of evidence, barriers to proper legal representation, language difficulties, denial of due process, and allegations of torture or ill-treatment during interrogation.

The couple have also reportedly been denied contact with their families since early May and have not been granted consular visits, adding to concerns about their safety and wellbeing.

Call for Immediate Release and Diplomatic Action

The experts warned that the case may reflect a wider pattern of foreign nationals being detained in Iran on unsupported charges for political leverage. They said people must never be used as bargaining tools between states and noted that hostage-taking is banned under international law. They also warned that such treatment can cause severe psychological harm to detainees and their families.

The experts called on Iranian authorities to provide immediate independent medical care, restore family and consular contact, reopen the case, overturn the convictions and release Lindsay and Craig Foreman without delay. They also urged the British Government to use every available diplomatic channel to secure the couple's freedom.