I have recently received a number of e-mails expressing concerns over the cases of the two British-Iranian dual nationals, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Kamal Foroughi.
I can assure you that Ministers and officials continue to make representations on all consular cases involving British nationals in Iran, including Mr Foroughi’s and Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe’s, at all levels with the Iranian Government. On 17 February the Foreign Secretary discussed Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe’s case with the Iranian Foreign Minister, and I am pleased that her family have confirmed she has legal representation. However, the fact that Iran does not recognise dual nationality makes progress difficult. Most recently, the new Minister for the Middle East raised Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe’s case in a telephone call with the Iranian Foreign Minister on 21 June. The Prime Minister additionally has raised strong concerns with the Iranian President, most recently on 24 May.
I very much share your concern for Mr Foroughi. It is vitally important that we continue to uphold the human rights of all the citizens in Iran with our international partners. Please be assured that I will continue to follow both of these cases closely and that I support the government’s endeavours.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.