Assange Launches Final Legal Battle to Avoid US Extradition
In a last-ditch effort to prevent extradition to the United States, supporters of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange rallied outside a London court as his final appeal hearing commenced. Assange’s wife, Stella, addressed the gathered crowd, expressing gratitude for their support and emphasizing the significance of their presence until Assange is freed.
The legal battle, spanning years in British courts, revolves around Assange’s extradition to the US to face trial over the publication of classified military and diplomatic documents by WikiLeaks in 2010. The US government has charged Assange multiple times between 2018 and 2020, seeking his extradition on 18 counts related to the publication of these files.
While the case nears its conclusion, Stella Assange asserted the importance of securing Julian’s freedom, highlighting the potential dire consequences should extradition proceed. Assange’s legal team intends to pursue appeals in European courts if necessary, with Stella Assange emphasizing the urgent need for intervention to safeguard his well-being.
Despite sustained pressure on US President Joe Biden to drop the indictment against Assange, Washington has persisted with the case, alleging severe breaches of national security. However, concerns persist regarding the fairness and legality of the charges, with critics decrying the use of the Espionage Act in prosecuting Assange for publishing classified information.
Assange, detained in London’s Belmarsh Prison since 2019, faces the prospect of a lengthy prison sentence if convicted in the US, prompting global outcry and calls for his release. As the legal proceedings unfold, Assange’s supporters continue to advocate for justice and press freedom, underscoring the gravity of the case’s implications.
