The family of a British couple facing espionage charges in Iran say that a verdict and sentence on the case could be handed down within days.
Lindsay and Craig Foreman, from East Sussex, were on a motorcycle trip around the world when they were detained by Iranian authorities in January and later charged with espionage – something the family denies.
Following a court appearance in Tehran on Saturday, their son Joe Bennett, of Folkestone, Kent, said the family was “exhausted” and “terrified by what may come next”.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said it was “deeply concerned” and continued to raise the case with Iranian authorities.
The family say they are increasingly alarmed about the trial proceedings in Iran following a recent hearing.
They claim they had asked for a UK foreign office official to attend but this request was denied, and said it was unclear whether the couple were given any opportunity to present a defence.
The family also say the court-appointed lawyer reportedly had to correct multiple mistranslations. They believe a verdict and sentence could be issued in 7 to 10 days.
Mr Bennett said: “I have nightmares thinking about how Mum and Craig can possibly be coping with this injustice, hearing false accusations, feeling helpless to be able to defend themselves, knowing that their words have been mistranslated.
“The court case may be moving forward, but our parents are still trapped in horrific conditions.”
A statement from family members once again urged the UK government to intervene.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has now agreed to meet with the family later in October, having received a letter signed by 35 MPs and members of the all-parliamentary group for arbitrary detention and hostage affairs.
The family says that, while welcome, action is needed sooner.
Mr Bennett added: “The UK government cannot continue to let this just happen.”
A spokesperson for the FCDO said: “We are deeply concerned by reports that Craig and Lindsay Foreman have been charged with espionage in Iran. We continue to raise this case directly with the Iranian authorities.
“The FCDO are providing them with consular assistance and remain in close contact with their family members.”
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