- Daniel Khalif, a former British soldier, has been sentenced to 14 years and 3 months in prison for spying for Iran and escaping from prison.
Incident details:
- Espionage: While serving as a member of the Royal Signals, Khalif established contacts with the Iranian intelligence agency, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He provided Iranian officials with classified military information, particularly the identities of special forces members.
- Escape from prison: In September 2023, Khalif escaped from Wandsworth Prison in London. He escaped by hiding under a food delivery truck, which triggered a massive police manhunt. Three days later, he was arrested in an area adjacent to a London canal.
Court verdict:
The court considered Khalifa's actions to be a serious threat to national security. Judge Ms Justice Chima-Grub said, "His actions posed a significant risk to members of the military."
Sentence:
Khalif received two six-year sentences for espionage and an additional two years and three months for escaping from prison. The sentences will run concurrently, making a total of 14 years and three months in prison.
Feedback:
The ruling is being seen as a warning to British security agencies and the military, highlighting the need for tougher action against espionage and security breaches.
