Former Soldier Daniel Khalife Convicted of Espionage

Daniel Khalife, a former British soldier, has been convicted of espionage for passing sensitive military information to Iranian intelligence. The 23-year-old, who had escaped from Wandsworth prison shortly before his trial, was found guilty by jurors at Woolwich Crown Court of exposing military personnel to serious harm. Khalife claimed his actions were part of a misguided plan to act as a double agent for the UK, inspired by the TV show 'Homeland', but prosecutors characterized his behavior as a 'cynical game'. He was acquitted of a bomb hoax charge, although he had previously attempted to prepare a fake explosive device at his barracks. His communications with Iranian operatives reportedly began at age 17, and he had also prepared fake documents to mislead military officials. Khalife's case has raised significant national security concerns in the UK.