British couple held in Iran named as family urge safe return

Craig and Lindsay Foreman, a British couple, are currently detained in Iran after embarking on a global motorbike journey. They entered Iran from Armenia on December 30, with plans to reach Pakistan by January 4. However, their trip took an unexpected turn when they were arrested in January, with Iranian state media reporting that they are being held on unspecified security charges. Their family has expressed deep concern for their safety and is actively working with the British government to secure their release. In a statement, 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. ' The family described the situation as 'distressing' and emphasized the emotional toll it has taken on them. They are grateful for the support they have received from friends and the community, which has provided them with strength during this challenging period. Before their arrest, Craig and Lindsay shared their excitement about their travels on social media. Lindsay, a life coach with a doctorate in psychology, expressed her joy at being in Iran, stating she was 'having an amazing time. ' Craig, a carpenter, also spoke highly of the 'lovely people' they encountered in the country. They visited several cities, including Tabriz, Tehran, and Isfahan, and were accompanied by a tour guide. However, they never checked into their hotel in Kerman, raising concerns about their whereabouts. The Iranian authorities have not disclosed the specific reasons for their detention, leaving their family and friends anxious for their return. The couple had moved from East Sussex to Spain in 2019 and were on their way to Australia. Lindsay was conducting a research project on their journey, exploring what it means to be human and what constitutes a good life. She was scheduled to present her findings at a conference on positive psychology in Brisbane in July. In her social media posts, she acknowledged the risks of traveling to Iran and Pakistan but believed the rewards of meeting incredible people and experiencing breathtaking landscapes outweighed the fears. She wrote, 'From the vast deserts of Iran to the towering peaks of Pakistan, we hope to share the beauty, hospitality, and humanity that often go unnoticed. ' The British Foreign Office is in contact with local authorities in Iran and is providing consular assistance to the couple. They have advised British nationals to avoid all travel to Iran due to the significant risk of arrest, questioning, or detention. The situation remains tense, and many are hoping for a positive resolution for Craig and Lindsay Foreman.