British Couple Sentenced in Iran: UK Urged to Act Amid Espionage Claims and Dire Prison Conditions
February 19, 2026
A British couple, Lindsay and Craig Foreman, have been sentenced to 10 years in prison in Iran on espionage charges after a three-hour trial, an outcome the Foreign Secretary and family deem unjustified and lacking transparency.
Their son, Joe Bennett, says the family is deeply concerned for their safety and well-being, and he describes the sentencing as devastating yet clarifying the severity of their situation.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemns the verdict as appalling and vows to pursue the case for their safety and potential repatriation, urging action from UK authorities.
The BBC coverage centers on Bennett’s statements about prison conditions and the urgency of a timely resolution as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Bennett notes the news is gut-wrenching but marks a starting point for a public fight to secure release.
The family urges continued resilience and stronger government response, with Bennett planning to meet UK ministers to press for action.
Bennett expects a meeting with the Foreign Secretary and warns that promises must be followed through, noting the sentence brings some clarity after months of silence.
Family statements describe dire living conditions in prison, including sleeping on metal frames or concrete floors, poor ventilation, blackouts, and a limited shop.
The article mentions Greatest Hits Radio as a channel for UK news updates.
Contextual reporting notes the prison complex has suffered prior bomb damage, reflecting broader regional tensions.
The family reports limited consular access, delays in legal representation, solitary confinement periods, disrupted visits, and difficulties in accessing funds and necessities.
Lindsay Foreman describes coping under solitary confinement with yoga and yard exercise, illustrating daily endurance.
Summary based on 16 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Feb 19, 2026
Jail sentence for British couple in Iran ‘totally unjustifiable’, says foreign secretary
BBC News • Feb 19, 2026
Brits detained in Iran receive 10-year prison sentence, family says
BBC News • Feb 11, 2026
Call to label Iran detention of East Sussex couple as arbitrary
CNN • Feb 19, 2026
UK condemns 10-year sentence for British couple in Iran