A British couple who have been detained in Iran have been named by their family as Craig and Lindsay Foreman.
The family said they are “significantly concerned” by the “distressing situation”.
According to Ms Foreman’s social media, the couple were on a motorbiking trip across the globe to Australia as part of a positive psychology mission.
On 30 December, she posted about how they were about to face “one of the most challenging” parts of their trip, Iran and Pakistan.
Image: Lindsay Foreman. Pic: Family handout via FCDO
Image: Craig Foreman. Pic: Family handout via FCDO
The post reads: “Despite the advice of friends, family, and the FCDO (which strongly advises against travel to Iran for British nationals), we’ve chosen to keep moving forward.
“Why? Because we believe that, no matter where you are in the world, most people are good, kind humans striving for a meaningful life.
“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.”
Image: A screenshot from Ms Foreman’s post in Armenia, from where they crossed into Iran. Pic: Instagram/Lindsay Foreman
Image: Ms Foreman appears in her post from Armenia. Pic: Instagram/Lindsay Foreman
In a statement, the couple’s family expressed their concern and said they were engaging with the UK government.
“We would like to take this opportunity to address the distressing situation concerning Craig and Lindsay Foreman who are currently being detained in Kerman, Iran,” they said.
“This unexpected turn of events has caused significant concern for our entire family, and we are deeply focused on ensuring their safety and wellbeing during this trying time.
“We are actively engaging with the British government and relevant authorities, working diligently to navigate the complexities of this matter. The family are united in our determination to secure their safe return.
“We truly appreciate the outpouring of support from friends, family, and the community, which has provided us with strength and encouragement as we face this ordeal.”
They added: “Thank you for your understanding, compassion, and continued support.”
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A Foreign Office spokesperson earlier said: “We are providing consular assistance to two British nationals detained in Iran and are in contact with the local authorities.”
Iranian state media said on Wednesday that a man and woman were in custody in Iran’s southeastern city of Kerman on security-related charges.
The Foreign Office warns that people are at risk of “arrest, detention and a death sentence” if they travel to Iran.
Iran has previously arrested and held British citizens for extended periods of time.