Anoosheh Ashoori, a former Iranian prisoner, has recently commented on the case of a British couple detained in Iran on charges of espionage. Craig and Lindsay Foreman were apprehended while embarking on a motorcycle journey around the world. Their detainment occurred in January this year, shortly after they entered Iran from Armenia on 30 December 2022.

Ashoori, aged 71 and a resident of Lewisham, south-east London, was imprisoned in Iran for nearly five years on similar spying allegations, specifically for allegedly working for Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency. His arrest took place in August 2017 during a visit to his ailing mother in Tehran. He described his experience, which included being subjected to solitary confinement and extensive periods of interrogation. He was ultimately released in April 2022 alongside fellow British-Iranian national Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, following the UK Government’s settlement of a £400 million debt to Iran dating back to the 1970s.

Speaking to the PA news agency, Ashoori expressed concern for the Foreman couple, urging them to “not submit to making false confessions.” He extended his support, stating, “My heart and my mind is with Craig and Lindsay and with their families in Britain.” He acknowledged that the temptation to visit Iran exists due to its beauty and hospitality but cautioned that it represents a significant risk, labelling it as “just a trap.” He advised that the couple’s decision to make their case public was wise, suggesting that increased social awareness surrounding their situation may deter the Iranian regime from mistreating them.

Reflecting on his own experience, Ashoori revealed the psychological toll the imprisonment took on him, including several suicide attempts and a 17-day hunger strike while serving his minimum sentence. He indicated that the motivations behind the Foremans’ arrest could be tied to financial negotiations or potential prisoner exchanges, asserting that in political matters, economic interests frequently take precedence over human rights.

The couple’s journey was initially portrayed on social media, with Lindsay Foreman acknowledging the risks associated with their travel, stating that while the situation was “slightly scary,” the rewards of engaging with people and experiencing the stunning landscapes of Iran were worth the potential dangers. During their travels, Mrs Foreman has been conducting research focused on understanding what constitutes a “good life,” planning to present her findings at a conference on positive psychology in Brisbane later this year.

As the situation unfolds, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has reiterated their concern about the charges faced by the Foremans. A spokesperson confirmed that they are providing consular assistance and maintaining communication with the couple’s family members. The FCDO continues to advise against all travel to Iran, pointing out that having connections to the UK can often be sufficient grounds for detention by Iranian authorities.

Source: Noah Wire Services