Daniel Khalife, a former British soldier, has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for spying on behalf of the Iranian government. The sentencing took place at the Old Bailey, where Khalife was described as a clear threat to national security. The court heard that Khalife had attempted to gather intelligence, including information about the British Army, under the pretense of collecting data for a research project. Prosecutor James Ageros stated that Khalife had transferred sensitive military information to Iranian operatives through encrypted messages. Khalife, 29, was arrested in August 2022 and denied the charges against him, claiming he was merely a “maverick”. His sentencing comes at a time of heightened concern regarding espionage activities within the UK. Judge Mark Dennis QC remarked on Khalife’s actions, stating that they not only endangered individuals but also could potentially compromise national security. Khalife is set to appeal his conviction. His family expressed disbelief at the verdict, claiming that Daniel had always been patriotic and had no ties to Iran.
Daniel Khalife Sentenced for Spying on behalf of Iran
