Defense lawyers for U.S. Army whistleblower Bradley Manning argued Monday that seven of the charges against him should be thrown out, including the charge of aiding the enemy, which could carry a life sentence. Colonel Denise Lind, who is presiding over his court-martial at Fort Meade, said she would rule on the motions Thursday.

Defense lawyers say the prosecution has failed to show Manning had “actual knowledge” the documents he gave to WikiLeaks would end up being seen by U.S. enemies, including al-Qaeda. They say prosecution arguments imply anyone who gives information to a news outlet that publishes it could be deemed to have given it to the enemy.