Iranian businessman in divorce battle with Irish wife

A wealthy Iranian businessman is embroiled in a divorce court fight with his estranged Irish wife.

Diplomat’s son Mehrdad Radseresht, 72, says Barbara Spain-Radseresht, who is 49 and used to work in the travel industry, agreed to a divorce when they lived in the Middle East more than seven years ago.

Mrs Spain-Radseresht, who comes from Dublin and now lives in London, disputes his claim and says she is entitled to a fair share of a marital fortune running into tens of millions of pounds.

Mehrdad Radseresht (left) says Barbara Spain -Radseresht (right) agreed to a divorce when they lived in the Middle East more than seven years ago

A High Court judge has been asked to make decisions about the validity of the marriage.

Mr Justice Cohen is analysing evidence at a public hearing in the Family Division of the High Court in London.

He said the couple could be named.

Mr Justice Cohen is analysing evidence at a public hearing in the Family Division of the High Court (pictured) in London 

Mr Radseresht told Mr Justice Cohen they reached a settlement agreement in Dubai in 2009 after Mrs Spain-Radseresht was unfaithful.

Mrs Spain-Radseresht said she was tricked into signing paperwork.

She said she found out about the ‘alleged Dubai divorce’ a year ago when she made a separate divorce application.