The family of a British national imprisoned in Iran says his sentence has been extended by two years, deepening fears about his welfare and the prospects for his release.
The man, who has been held in Evin Prison in Tehran since 2023, was originally sentenced on charges widely regarded by human rights organisations as politically motivated. His family, who have asked for his name to be withheld to avoid further jeopardising his situation, said they were informed of the extension through the Foreign Office.
The case is one of several involving foreign nationals held in Iran in circumstances that critics say amount to hostage diplomacy. Western governments have accused Tehran of using detainees as bargaining chips in negotiations over frozen assets, sanctions relief and diplomatic recognition. Iran denies the allegations, maintaining that all prisoners are held in accordance with Iranian law.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said it was providing consular support to the family and had raised the case directly with Iranian authorities. A spokesperson described the sentence extension as "unacceptable" and called for the man's immediate release on humanitarian grounds.
The family's statement, released through their lawyer, described the extension as "a devastating blow after years of waiting." They urged the government to intensify diplomatic efforts, warning that the man's health was deteriorating after three years of detention in conditions that human rights monitors have described as severe.
Join in — free. Comments on Daily Junction are for members, so real names stay rare and bots stay out.
One field. We email you a 6-digit code — no password needed. Your comment is kept while you do it.
Under 13? You’ll need a parent’s OK first — it takes them one click.