Ex-Soldier Daniel Abed Khalife on Trial for Stafford Bomb Hoax, Wandsworth Prison Escape & Spying For Iran

Daniel Khalife, a former British soldier based at Beacon Barracks, Stafford, is on trial for allegedly passing sensitive information to Iran and making a daring escape from HMP Wandsworth. Woolwich Crown Court heard that Khalife, 23, fled his Army barracks in January 2023 after learning he would face charges under the Official Secrets Act. He is accused of gathering information for Iranian intelligence between 2019 and 2022.

Prosecutors allege Khalife compiled details of special forces soldiers and attempted to extract personal information about military personnel that could aid a terrorist act. He is also charged with perpetrating a bomb hoax in Staffordshire in January 2023.

While awaiting trial, Khalife allegedly escaped from prison in September 2023 by tying himself to the underside of a food delivery van. He was recaptured three days later.

Khalife’s Army career was highlighted in court, where it was revealed he had won an award for Best Junior Soldier. However, his aspirations to join the special forces were reportedly discouraged due to his Iranian heritage.

Khalife denies all charges. The trial continues.

Jason King

Birmingham City-Desk

Twitter (X) @JasonKingNews

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