A British couple on an around-the-world motorcycle journey has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in Iran on espionage charges. Lindsay and Craig Foreman, from East Sussex, England, were arrested during a brief visit in early 2025. The UK government has condemned the verdict and pledged to seek their release.
Lindsay and Craig Foreman began their motorcycle ride from the UK to Australia in pursuit of adventure and a psychological research project. Dr. Foreman, who holds a doctorate in psychology, aimed to interview people worldwide on what it means to be human and how to live a good life, with plans to present findings in Brisbane.
Despite warnings from friends and the UK government about dangers in Iran, the couple entered from Armenia on December 30, 2024, with valid visas, a guide, and an approved itinerary. They expected to leave by January 4, 2025. Before crossing, Lindsay Foreman posted on social media about tackling a "challenging-and let’s be honest, slightly scary- section" of their journey. She added, “Yes, we’re aware of the risks. But we also know the rewards of meeting incredible people, hearing their stories, and seeing the breathtaking landscapes of these regions could far outweigh the fear.”
The pair traveled through Tabriz, Tehran, and Isfahan without issue but failed to reach their hotel in Kerman on the fourth day. Their communications ceased, and six weeks later, Iranian state media reported their arrest on espionage charges, accusing them of “cooperating with covert institutions linked to the intelligence services of hostile and Western countries.”
Iran’s Mizan news agency stated the couple was monitored and arrested, entering “under the guise of tourists and, under the guise of investigative and research work, have collected information in several provinces.” Officials claimed “The connection of these individuals with several institutions affiliated with intelligence services has been confirmed.”
Since January 2025, they have been detained in separate sections of Tehran’s Evin prison, known for harsh conditions including solitary confinement and other abuses reported by human rights groups. Lindsay is in the women’s section, Craig in the political wing; they meet monthly. Craig Foreman described his 8-foot cell with a hole in the floor and sink, and 57 days in solitary: “Emotionally and physically, it broke me to pieces.” He said of seeing his wife, 70 meters away, “For me and for Lindsay, seeing each other is the only thing that’s keeping us going right now. I love my wife dearly. She’s the love of my life.”
They met British Ambassador Hugo Shorter, but received little legal support. In October 2025, a three-hour trial denied them a defense, resulting in 10-year sentences announced recently. Family members launched a petition; son Bennett delivered 70,000 signatures to 10 Downing Street in January 2026.
British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called the sentences “completely appalling and totally unjustifiable.” She stated the government will work “ceaselessly” with Iran, pursuing the case “relentlessly” until the couple’s return, while prioritizing their welfare and providing consular aid. Tensions between Iran and Western nations remain high.
