Iran sentences British couple on world motorcycle tour to 10 years for spying
South China Morning Post
by Agence France-PresseFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A British couple, Lindsay and Craig Foreman, have been sentenced to 10 years in jail by an Iranian court on espionage charges. The duo, in their fifties, were arrested while on a world motorcycle tour in Iran since January last year. They have consistently denied the spying allegations, which their family claims stem from Tehran’s accusations during their court appearance in October.
The couple was traveling through Iran as part of a global motorcycle journey when they were detained. Their relatives revealed that despite denying any wrongdoing, the court convicted them, leading to the harsh sentence. The UK government has strongly condemned the verdict, calling it unjust and urging for their immediate release.
This case highlights the ongoing tensions between Iran and the UK, particularly regarding dual nationals or foreign travelers in Iran. It raises concerns about the treatment of Westerners in Iran and the lack of transparency in judicial processes. Advocacy groups have called for international attention to such cases, emphasizing the need for diplomacy and human rights protection.
The situation underscores broader issues of geopolitical tensions and the challenges faced by expatriates in Iran. As global travelers continue to face risks in various countries, this case serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of understanding local laws and diplomatic sensitivities.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/19/2026