Son Urges Iran Prisoner Swap for British Couple on Hunger Strike

The son of a British couple imprisoned in Iran is urging the UK government to explore a prisoner exchange to secure their release, as the pair continue a hunger strike. Joe Bennett stated that deporting an Iranian national held in the UK could lead to the freedom of his mother, Lindsay Foreman, and stepfather, Craig Foreman.

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arrangements can be made of that kind, but the specifics on this would not be right. And I'm not sure from what I've heard that this is… credible

The Foremans, from East Sussex, have been detained since January 2025 and received 10-year sentences for espionage in February, allegations they vehemently deny. Their appeal was recently rejected. Bennett expressed frustration, questioning why a prisoner swap is not being actively pursued for his mother and stepfather.

The UK Foreign Office previously stated its disappointment with the appeal outcome and commitment to securing their return. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy acknowledged that such arrangements are possible but expressed skepticism about the credibility of this specific proposal, declining to provide further details to avoid jeopardizing ongoing discussions with Iran.

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very, very fractured

Bennett described the family's contact with the couple as "very, very fractured" and highlighted the hunger strike as their "biggest concern." He noted Iran's apparent strong interest in the individual imprisoned in the UK and questioned what alternative solutions are being considered if a swap is not viable. The family is increasingly worried about the couple's mental and physical well-being amid the prolonged detention and lack of contact.

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the hunger strike was now the family's 'biggest concern'