Why it matters:
The case highlights ongoing humanitarian and consular concerns regarding Iranian nationals detained abroad, amid accusations that British authorities are ignoring international obligations and basic human rights standards.
The big picture:
Richard Jean has been incarcerated in a British prison for over two decades. Despite completing his sentence under UK law long ago, British officials have refused to release or repatriate him to Iran. Tehran says that the continued detention violates both domestic legal norms and London’s international obligations.
What he’s saying:
Iran’s Ambassador to London, Ali Mousavi, told Iran Press:
“The Foreign Ministry and the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran are actively pursuing the cases of all Iranian nationals held abroad. Despite our repeated efforts, the British government has refused to release Mr. Jean, even though his prison sentence legally ended years ago.”
He added that the embassy had sent letters to the UK’s Ministers of Justice and Foreign Affairs. Additionally, two Armenian lawmakers in Iran’s Parliament have urged London to release him on humanitarian grounds.
The Iranian Ambassador emphasized that Jean suffers from a large abdominal tumor and is receiving inadequate medical care.
Mousavi also stated that London’s delay in freeing Jean is "unjustifiable and unlawful."
He warned that any further neglect by Britain could “trigger international accountability” for the UK government.
London is said to justify its refusal to release Jean by arguing that his return to Iran could pose a threat to British citizens due to “communication and internet-related risks.” Mousavi rejected this explanation as “absurd and irrelevant,” emphasizing that Tehran has ensured his supervision in accordance with Iranian law.
The Ambassador highlighted that Jean’s Christian faith has never been an issue, and that Iran seeks his return solely for medical treatment and humanitarian reasons.
Key points:
- Richard Jean is reportedly suffering from severe illness, unable to walk, and dependent on a wheelchair.
- UK authorities cite “budgetary and logistical issues” for their failure to provide proper care to foreign inmates.
- Iran has formally notified Britain that responsibility for his life lies with the UK government.
Go deeper:
Jean’s elderly mother has repeatedly appealed for his release. Iran has called for the immediate release and repatriation of Richard Jean so that he can receive treatment at home and live “with dignity among his family and compatriots.”
Tehran has warned that continued British inaction in this case will be regarded as a serious human rights violation and a breach of London’s legal obligations.
Hossein Vaez - Mahboubeh Habibi
