What to Know as Julian Assange Faces a Ruling on his U.S. Extradition Case over WikiLeaks Secrets
Lawyers for Julian Assange have launched their final appeal to a U.K. court against his extradition to the U.S. on espionage charges related to WikiLeaks. This article provides an overview of the hearing and the charges Assange faces, as well as the potential consequences if he is convicted.
Lawyers Launch Final Appeal in U.K. Court
Lawyers for Julian Assange have initiated their last legal effort to prevent his extradition to the U.S. on espionage charges. Assange, who has been imprisoned in London for nearly five years, used WikiLeaks to publish classified documents and other materials, arguing that the public had a legitimate right to access that information. This appeal is the final chance for Assange's legal team to argue against the British government's decision to extradite him.
During the hearing, it was mentioned that Assange was not present due to illness. However, one of the judges stated that he had been invited to attend in person or via video link. Assange's wife, Stella, was present at the court along with a large group of supporters demanding his release.
Purpose of the Hearing
The outcome of this appeal will determine whether Assange has the right to launch a fresh appeal at the European Court of Human Rights to block his extradition. If the appeal is rejected, he is likely to be extradited to the U.S. to face trial. The High Court judges hearing the case could take several weeks to deliver their ruling, but it is possible that a verdict will be announced as early as Wednesday.
Assange was indicted by a U.S. federal grand jury in 2019 on 18 charges, including espionage and computer intrusion, related to the publication of classified documents on WikiLeaks. One of the most notable releases was a video showing a U.S. military helicopter strike in Baghdad that resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals.
Potential Consequences and Support for Assange
If Assange is convicted on all charges, he could face up to 175 years in prison, with each count of espionage carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years. However, the actual sentence is likely to be lower. Many of Assange's supporters view the fight against his extradition as a battle for press freedom and the right to a fair trial. They argue that journalists need whistleblowers like Assange to uncover matters of national security.
There are concerns about Assange's physical and mental wellbeing if he were to be extradited. Amnesty International has warned of potential human rights violations and torture-like detention conditions. Assange's wife has emphasized the significance of this case, stating that it will determine whether he lives or dies. Supporters have been urged to protest outside the Royal Courts of Justice during the appeal hearings.
