Richard Ratcliffe, the husband of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, has urged the UK government to take action swiftly to help a British couple currently detained in Iran. Craig and Lindsay Foreman were arrested in January, but details of their detention on unspecified security charges only came to light recently. The Foremans, both 52 years old, were on a motorbike trip around the world and had intended to spend only five days in Iran.
Ratcliffe emphasized the need for the Foreign Office to enhance its travel advice regarding the risks of travelling to Iran. The UK government advises against all travel to Iran, warning that British passport holders or individuals with UK connections could be detained for reasons related to their nationality. The Foreman family expressed deep concern over the couple’s detention, emphasizing their focus on ensuring their safety and well-being during this challenging period.
Before their detention, Mrs. Foreman acknowledged the risks involved in traveling to Iran and Pakistan against Foreign Office advice but highlighted the rewards of meeting people and experiencing the region’s breathtaking landscapes. Ratcliffe stressed the importance of preventing the couple from being held in solitary confinement and emphasized the need for proper care and attention to prevent them from feeling isolated. The UK Foreign Office confirmed that it is offering consular assistance to the detained British nationals and maintaining contact with local authorities in Iran.
The Foremans, who were en route to Australia from Armenia on their global journey, planned to reach Pakistan by early January. After visiting various cities in Iran with a tour guide, they arrived in Kerman but did not check into their hotel. The Iranian authorities have not disclosed the charges against the couple. Prior to their arrest, the Foremans shared their enthusiasm for being in Iran on social media, with Mrs. Foreman expressing joy and Mr. Foreman praising the country and its people. The couple’s background includes moving from East Sussex to Andalucia, Spain, in 2019 to start a new life and appearing on a television show to showcase their expat lifestyle
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