I am sorry that this couple are in an Iranian jail because the experience will be horrendous but, like many posters feel that they have brought it on themselves by ignoring all guidance and, seemingly, not even having the most basic knowledge of current affairs. However, it is their family that I truly feel sorry for. I have a very good friend whose middle-aged son, married with teenage children, suddenly decided to go to Israel recently with a friend. She was worried sick but, thankfully, he returned safely, although he almost did not.
We have extended family in the Far East and have been invited to a a wedding there later in the year. The last few times we have been there, we have travelled with UAE (United Arab Emirates), which involves a short stopover in Dubai airport. They are a very good airline. However, with the situation in the Middle East escalating, we are looking at alternative options that bypass the whole region altogether. It is not worth the risk