A British couple being held in custody in Iran as they motorbiked across the world are in a ‘distressing situation’, their desperate family have said.
Craig and Lindsay Foreman, who are in their early 50s, were arrested in January on unspecified security charges.
The news was first released by state-run media who said they were being held custody in Kerman.
They published an image of the couple – with their faces blurred – meeting Hugo Shorter, the British ambassador.
Mr Foreman, a carpenter, and Dr Foreman, a life coach, crossed into Iran from Armenia on December 30 and their plan was to leave the country by January 4 on their way to .
After crossing into Iran they stayed in Tabriz, Tehran and Isfahan. But they never reached their next hotel in Kerman.
In a statement issued by the Foreign Office, the family of Craig and Lindsay Foreman said their arrest had ’caused significant concern’ and that they were ‘united in our determination to secure their safe return’.
They said: ‘We would like to take this opportunity to address the distressing situation concerning Craig and Lindsay Foreman who are currently being detained in Kerman, Iran.
‘This unexpected turn of events has caused significant concern for our entire family, and we are deeply focused on ensuring their safety and well-being during this trying time.
‘We are actively engaging with the British government and relevant authorities, working diligently to navigate the complexities of this matter. The family are united in our determination to secure their safe return.
‘We truly appreciate the outpouring of support from friends, family, and the community, which has provided us with strength and encouragement as we face this ordeal.
‘In light of the circumstances, we kindly ask for the utmost respect regarding our family’s privacy.
‘The emotional burden of this situation weighs heavily on us, and we request that all media inquiries be directed to the FCDO as we manage this challenging chapter in our lives. Thank you for your understanding, compassion, and continued support.’
Mr and Dr Foreman only passed their bike tests last year before embarking on their round-the-world trip.
The life coach, who has a doctorate in psychology, was preparing a research project which she was to present in Brisbane at the conclusion of their trip, the BBC reports.
She was asking people at points along their trip what it means to be human and how you can live a good life.
Before entering Iran, she posted on her social media that they were about to ‘tackle one of the most challenging—and let’s be honest, slightly scary—sections of our journey’.
The couple said they had chosen to ignore the words of their friends, family and the Foreign Office because they ‘believe that, no matter where you are in the world, most people are good, kind humans striving for a meaningful life.’
Dr Foreman continued: ‘Yes, we’re aware of the risks. But we also know the rewards of meeting incredible people, hearing their stories, and seeing the breathtaking landscapes of these regions could far outweigh the fear.
‘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.
‘We’re carrying your love and good wishes with us, so stay tuned for updates from this unforgettable part of our adventure.’
Foreign Office guidance advises against all travel to Iran, where they say British nationals face the threat of arrest and tensions within the Middle East could quickly escalate.
They say: ‘British and British-Iranian dual nationals are at significant risk of arrest, questioning or detention.
‘Having a British passport or connections to the UK can be reason enough for the Iranian authorities to detain you.’
The department said it is in contact with Iranian authorities and providing Mr and Dr Foreman with consular support.
In a post on January 3, after they had crossed into Iran, Dr Foreman posted a photo of herself with a religious leader, both holding their hands over their hearts.
Capturing the poignant scene, she said: ‘Travel continues to teach me that humanity’s core is shared: kindness, humility, and respect for one another. Sometimes, it’s the quietest moments that leave the loudest impressions.’
In another from the same day, she posted a photo of herself laughing with locals, and praising the ‘one human family’ she had found in her travels.
She added: ‘Travel has a way of reminding you of what really matters. On this journey around the world, we’ve felt a deep sense of connection—and nowhere more so than here in Iran.
‘This journey has taught me that when we strip away our differences, what remains is simple and powerful – our shared humanity. And when we choose to shine, together we can truly light up the world.
‘Let’s focus on what unites us, celebrate each other’s truths, and embrace the beauty of connection.’
Photos of their time in Iran showed them on walking tours of the Tabriz Bazaar, the Tower of Silence and trying out Persian martial Arts as they travelled from city to city with a guide.
The guide deleted his account after telling he had ‘no information’ and was ‘only a tourist guide and working with agencies’.
This is a breaking story, more to follow.