The High Court of London has ruled that Julian Assange cannot be extradited to the US on espionage charges unless US authorities guarantee that he won’t face the death penalty. The decision comes after High Court judges stated that Assange must be afforded the same First Amendment protections as a US citizen.
Assange’s legal battle, which has spanned over a decade, will continue as US authorities have three weeks to provide further assurances. The Wikileaks founder remains in London’s Belmarsh Prison, where he has been held since his arrest in 2019.
Supporters of Assange are urging the Biden administration to drop the case against him, claiming that he is being persecuted for exposing war crimes. However, the US government argues that Assange’s actions went beyond journalism and endangered many individuals.
Assange could face up to 175 years in prison if convicted for charges related to Wikileaks’ publication of classified documents. His legal troubles began in 2010 when he was arrested in London at Sweden’s request. He faces 17 counts under the Espionage Act and one charge of computer misuse.
The extradition request was initially rejected in 2021 due to concerns over Assange’s mental health. However, higher courts overturned that decision after receiving assurances from the US. Assange’s lawyers have questioned the reliability of these assurances and have stated that his physical and mental health have suffered during his years in confinement.
The ruling allows Assange to file further submissions before a final decision is made on the appeal. As the legal battle continues, supporters of Assange are calling for justice and are closely monitoring the case as it unfolds.
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