US-Iran deal must see British pair released - family

Any peace deal between the US and Iran should also include the release of innocent prisoners, the family of a British couple held in a Tehran prison say.

Craig and Lindsay Foreman, from East Sussex, continue to be held in Evin prison on espionage charges having lost an appeal over a 10-year prison sentence.

Ahead of a deal which would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, Lindsay's son Joe Bennett says it remains a "moment of fear" for families whose loved ones are being held.

Bennett, from Folkestone in Kent, said: "Deals can be made, sanctions can be discussed, shipping lanes can be reopened, but human beings must not be left behind in prison cells."

He added: "My mum and Craig are British citizens. They are innocent people caught in a nightmare.

"Any serious peace framework with Iran must include the fate of foreign detainees.

"Peace cannot just mean quieter borders and open shipping routes. It must mean people coming home."

Craig and Lindsay Foreman have been held since January 2025, and were sentenced in February of this year.

Craig and Lindsay have been on hunger strike for 39 and 30 days respectively, their family says.

Bennett had previously called for a prisoner exchange in order to ensure their release.

The Foreign Office previously said there was no truth in claims of a possible prisoner exchange and it would continue working for the couple's safe return.

The family has called on the UK government to raise the case with Iran and other states involved in the peace framework, and for Iran to allow consular access, medical care, welfare support and full family contact.

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