Craig and Lindsay Foreman, a British couple on a global motorbiking trip aimed at promoting positive psychology, have been arrested in Iran on charges related to espionage.

The couple reportedly entered the country under the pretext of tourism and conducting research for a happiness survey.

The Iranian judiciary has accused the couple of "cooperating with covert institutions linked to the intelligence services of hostile and Western countries." According to state media reports, their arrest followed monitoring by Iranian security agencies.

A statement attributed to the judiciary claimed that the Foremans had collected information across several provinces while masquerading as tourists.

Lindsay and Craig Foreman announced their journey on social media, citing their intention to reach Brisbane, Australia, by July 1, 2025, to present their survey findings at the International Positive Psychology Association (IPPA) Conference.

The survey is said to explore various aspects of happiness, including what it means to lead a good life and intentional activities that improve communal well-being.

As part of their project, the couple claimed to have documented over 80 personal interviews around the world since the inception of their research initiative at the European Conference on Positive Psychology in July 2014.

A spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office expressed concern over the situation, emphasizing ongoing communication with Iranian authorities and providing consular assistance to the couple’s family.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has previously issued travel advisories to UK nationals, strongly advising against travel to Iran due to risks of arbitrary arrest, especially of British citizens.

Despite these warnings, the Foremans reportedly entered Iran from Armenia on December 30, 2024. As per their social media postings, they acknowledged the risks involved in traveling to Iran and expressed their belief in the inherent goodness of people around the world.

During their stay, they visited significant cities including Tabriz, Tehran, and Isfahan, accompanied by a tour guide.

However, they were due to continue to Kerman but failed to check into their scheduled hotel.

Reports indicate that the couple had an audience with the UK's ambassador to Iran, Hugo Shorter, just prior to their arrest.

This incident comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and several Western nations, including the UK. The situation continues to develop as Iranian authorities conduct further investigations into the couple's activities.