British Man Imprisoned in Iran Faces Increased Sentence Amid Hunger Strike

By July 15, 2026 / CBS News / London – A British man imprisoned in Iran has seen his sentence extended by two years amid ongoing espionage allegations. Craig Foreman, 52, originally received a decade-long sentence, which officials have criticized as unfounded. His family announced the extension as Craig and his wife Lindsay continue a two-month hunger strike.

Craig and Lindsay Foreman were arrested in January 2025 during a motorcycle trip from Europe to Asia. Shortly before U.S. and Israeli military action against Iran in February, charges of espionage were levied against them. The sentencing was conducted by a judge sanctioned by the U.S., U.K., and European Union for conducting unfair trials. The couple has spent over 18 months in Tehran’s Evin prison.

We understand he was told he was being taken to see his lawyer but was instead brought before a judge and informed of the additional sentence, said Joe Bennett, Lindsay’s son and family spokesperson.

Bennett expressed dismay at the treatment of the Foremans. He said Craig did not have access to legal representation, a translator, or the opportunity to defend himself during the re-sentencing. The British Foreign Office is in urgent discussions with Iranian officials regarding Craig’s increased sentence.

Growing Concerns Over Health

Craig began his hunger strike on May 9, which Lindsay joined on May 18. They had previously protested with a hunger strike in November 2025. The family reports both have lost significant weight, with Craig losing 35 pounds and Lindsay losing 30, alongside experiencing dizzy spells and tremors. A letter from their family requesting them to cease their hunger strike was blocked from reaching them.

Bennett, continuously engaging with various parties including lawyers and government officials, described the emotional toll of the situation. He faces an ongoing struggle of uncertainty, worrying about his mother and stepfather’s safety and health.

The Foremans had been allowed to communicate with family after months of denial but were cut off again in May. HRANA, a U.S.-based rights organization, states they are also denied adequate medical care, emphasizing the validity of the couple’s denial of espionage charges.

Efforts to Secure Release

British lawmaker Hamish Falconer has called the Foremans “innocent tourists,” reinforcing the argument for their wrongful detention. With escalating military action in Iran, Bennett worries about the couple’s safety.

In June 2025, an Israeli attack on Evin prison caused further fear for the family, who were unaware that the Foremans had not been moved there at the time. Their subsequent transfer to Evin occurred the following October, adding to the strain of uncertainties regarding their safety.

United Nations experts have advocated for the Foremans’ release, labeling their detention as wrongful. The British government has continuously criticized the initial decade-long sentence. A new U.K. envoy has been appointed to aid British nationals detained in similar situations, signaling increased diplomatic efforts.

We are asking, with everything we have, for them to be shown mercy and allowed to come home, Bennett urged, stressing the importance of international cooperation and persistent engagement.