U.S. Lawyers to Defend Extradition of Julian Assange in London Court:
Lawyers representing the American government are set to present arguments in a London court on Wednesday, outlining why they believe Julian Assange should be extradited to the United States to face espionage charges. This comes as part of a final attempt by Assange’s defense team to halt his extradition.
Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, is facing 17 charges of espionage and one charge of computer misuse over the publication of classified U.S. documents on his website nearly 15 years ago. American prosecutors allege that Assange assisted in the theft of diplomatic cables and military files by U.S. Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning, thereby endangering lives.
In response, Assange’s lawyers are seeking a new appeal from the High Court, arguing that the prosecution is politically motivated and that Assange would not receive a fair trial in the U.S. They contend that Assange’s actions were in the public interest, exposing alleged wrongdoing by the U.S. government in Iraq and Afghanistan.
During the hearing, Assange’s legal team highlighted concerns about his health, stating that he is unwell and may face a “flagrant denial of justice” if extradited. Assange’s wife, Stella Assange, expressed worry about his deteriorating physical and mental health, warning that extradition could lead to his death.
Supporters of Assange gathered outside the court building, holding signs and chanting slogans calling for his release. Assange’s legal saga began in 2010 with his arrest in London at the request of Sweden over sexual assault allegations. After seeking refuge in the Ecuadorian Embassy, he was evicted and arrested in 2019.
While a U.K. district court initially rejected the U.S. extradition request in 2021, higher courts overturned the decision after receiving assurances about Assange’s treatment in U.S. custody. If the London court rules against Assange, he may appeal to the European Court of Human Rights, though concerns remain about the timing of his potential extradition.