- UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband told Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi that Britain will "not tolerate intimidation, threats or hostile activity on UK soil" from groups linked to Iran.
- Miliband met Araghchi on Thursday during the UN General Assembly in New York.
- The Foreign Office stated that Miliband reiterated the UK's resolve to combat threats from Iranian-linked groups and called for the immediate release of the detained couple, Craig and Lindsay Foreman.
- In February, the Foremans were sentenced to 10 years in jail on espionage charges, which they deny.
- In February, the US and Israel attacked Iran, resulting in the death of the country's supreme leader.
- Iran retaliated by launching strikes on Israel and Gulf Arab states, and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global oil shipments.
UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband met with Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi during the UN General Assembly, asserting that Britain will "not tolerate intimidation, threats or hostile activity on UK soil" from Iranian-linked groups.12
The Foreign Secretary emphasized the UK's unwavering resolve to combat such threats, particularly against the British Jewish community. He stated, "Iran should choose de-escalation and diplomacy instead of prolonging the war," highlighting the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz for global security and economic stability.67
Miliband also raised the issue of Craig and Lindsay Foreman, a British couple detained in Iran for over 20 months on espionage charges, which they deny. He reiterated the call for their immediate release, stressing that their welfare remains a priority for the UK government. The couple was arrested while traveling through Iran on a motorcycle trip and are currently held in Tehran's Evin prison.3
The meeting comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, following recent military actions involving Iran and the US. The Foreign Office noted that Miliband's discussions included the ongoing war and the need for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation.
“Miliband met Araghchi on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, where he also discussed the war in the Middle East and the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz. He separately called for the immediate release of Craig and Lindsay Foreman, who are held in Tehran's Evin prison after being sentenced to 10 years on espionage charges they deny.”
BBC
