A British couple detained in Iran have lost their appeal against a 10-year prison sentence, their family confirmed on Tuesday. The family stated that Craig and Lindsay Foreman were not permitted to attend the appeal hearing and received minimal information about the proceedings.
Background of the Case
Craig and Lindsay Foreman were sentenced to 10 years in a Tehran prison last year after being charged with espionage by Iranian authorities. The couple has consistently denied the allegations.
Family's Statement
Lindsay Foreman's son, Joe Bennett, issued a statement expressing the family's distress. "They were not permitted to attend their own appeal hearing," Bennett said. He added that the family is unsure whether the couple received a proper account of the case presented on their behalf. The couple was reportedly asked to sign documents in Farsi, a language they do not understand.
Bennett also revealed that the case has been referred to Iran's Supreme Court, but the process and timeline remain unclear. The couple is effectively without legal representation, he said, and they have initiated a hunger strike in protest, losing contact with their family.
International Response
The British government has previously described the Foremans' sentence as "totally unjustifiable" and has pledged to continue pressing for their release. However, the family has criticized London's response, alleging earlier this year that the couple was being used as "human shields" amid regional conflict.
Iran's Judiciary did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters. Britain's foreign ministry also did not respond immediately.
