Craig and Lindsay Foreman, a British couple arrested in Iran last month, have been publicly identified as their family urges authorities to secure their safe return. The news of their detention surfaced on Thursday after Iranian state media reported they were being held on unspecified security charges.
The couple, both 52, had been on an extensive motorbike journey around the world and planned to spend just five days in Iran before continuing their travels.
In a statement issued by the UK Foreign Office on behalf of the family, they described the situation as "distressing" and expressed their deep concern. "This unexpected turn of events has caused significant concern for our entire family, and we are deeply focused on ensuring their safety and well-being during this trying time," the statement read. The family added that they are actively working with British authorities to navigate the complexities of the situation.
Craig, a carpenter, and Lindsay, a life coach with a doctorate in psychology, had been documenting their travels on social media. They had entered Iran from Armenia on December 30 and planned to reach Pakistan by January 4.
Their itinerary took them through major Iranian cities, including Tabriz, Tehran, and Isfahan, where they were accompanied by a tour guide. However, after heading to Kerman in east-central Iran, they never checked into their hotel, raising concerns about their whereabouts.
Before their arrest, both had shared positive experiences about their time in Iran. Lindsay posted on Instagram about the kindness and hospitality of the Iranian people, writing: "Travel continues to teach me that humanity's core is shared: kindness, humility, and respect for one another." On Facebook, she reflected on cultural differences but emphasized the universal nature of human connection.
Craig also spoke fondly of the country, describing the people as "lovely" and their experiences as overwhelmingly positive.
Iranian authorities have yet to specify the charges against the couple. Their detention adds to a growing number of cases where foreign or dual nationals have been arrested on vague security-related accusations. Human rights groups have long accused Iran of using such detentions as a means of political leveleverage.
A photograph published on Wednesday showed the couple meeting British Ambassador Hugo Shorter at the public prosecutor's office in Kerman, though their faces were blurred. The UK Foreign Office has stated that it is in contact with Iranian authorities and is providing consular assistance.
The couple had been aware of the risks associated with traveling through Iran and Pakistan. In an Instagram post, Lindsay acknowledged that their route was considered dangerous but believed the opportunity to meet people and experience diverse landscapes outweighed the risks.
"Yes, we're aware of the risks," she wrote. "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 UK Foreign Office has long advised against all travel to Iran, warning that British nationals—especially those with dual nationality—face a heightened risk of arrest and detention.
"Having a British passport or connections to the UK can be reason enough for the Iranian authorities to detain you," official guidance states.
In recent years, numerous foreign nationals have been detained in Iran under security-related charges, often in cases that human rights organizations say are politically motivated.
The Foremans’ family, overwhelmed by the situation, continues to call for their safe release, drawing strength from the support of friends and the wider community. Meanwhile, UK officials remain engaged in diplomatic efforts to bring the couple home.
