On Tuesday, the London High Court ruled against extraditing WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to the US. This decision is the latest in Assange’s long legal fight against extradition.
Since 2019, Assange has been in a London high-security prison. His work with WikiLeaks, which released classified US documents in 2010, led to the US seeking his extradition on espionage charges.
The ruling lets Assange challenge the extradition on new grounds. This could change the decision on his extradition. The case has drawn global attention and debate on press freedom.
Assange’s lawyers argue that extraditing him would violate a UK-US treaty against political offense extradition. They cite risks to his mental health and potential for harsh sentencing.
The US accuses Assange of endangering agents with the leaks. His lawyers call the charges politically motivated, warning of threats to journalistic freedom.
If denied appeal, Assange’s team plans to approach the European Court of Human Rights. This could delay extradition. The US assured Assange wouldn’t be in maximum security and could serve time in Australia if convicted.
The case has sparked debate on journalists’ rights, espionage laws, and press freedom. The international community watches as Assange awaits his appeal, with many calling for his release and others demanding accountability for the leaks.