Former British Soldier Found Guilty of Espionage for Iran
Daniel Khalife, a former British Army soldier, has been convicted of espionage for Iran, following a high-profile case that raised concerns about national security and prison security protocols. The 23-year-old was found guilty of sharing sensitive information with Iranian intelligence, including the names of special forces soldiers, a breach of both the Official Secrets Act and the Terrorism Act. However, he was acquitted of perpetrating a bomb hoax at his army barracks.
Khalife’s actions reportedly began shortly after his enlistment in September 2018, when he contacted individuals linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Prosecutors revealed that he passed classified material, such as documents on drones and intelligence operations, to Iranian agents. Some of his activities included collecting money, such as $2,000 left in a park, and establishing communications via encrypted platforms like Telegram. Although he claimed the information he shared was largely fabricated, prosecutors argued that his leaks jeopardized the safety of UK military personnel and national security.
The case also included Khalife’s dramatic escape from Wandsworth Prison in September 2023. Awaiting trial at the time, he evaded capture for 75 hours by attaching himself to the underside of a food delivery truck. His subsequent arrest and trial revealed his ongoing efforts to contact Iranian agents even while on the run.
The trial brought to light the sensitive nature of the information Khalife accessed and his betrayal of trust as a British soldier. Bethan David, head of the Crown Prosecution Service’s counter-terrorism division, highlighted the grave risks posed by his actions, which could have endangered lives and undermined national security. Commander Dominic Murphy of the Metropolitan Police’s Counter-Terrorism Command described Khalife’s actions as reckless and emphasized the ongoing threats posed by hostile states like Iran.
The escape also exposed vulnerabilities in the UK’s prison system. Investigations revealed staffing shortages on the day of the breakout, with 40% of officers absent from duty. This lapse led to a temporary transfer of inmates and raised broader concerns about security in British prisons.
Justice Bobbie Cheema-Grubb has indicated that Khalife will face a lengthy prison sentence when sentencing occurs early next year. This case underscores the severe consequences of espionage and the importance of safeguarding national security amidst evolving global threats.
Source: BBC
