Julian Assange’s Fate Hangs in the Balance as U.S. Extradition Judgment Looms
Assange may face deportation within 24 hours of the decision, or he may be released, or he may once again become entangled in lengthy legal battles.
At London’s High Court, hundreds of protesters have gathered to find out if Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, will be extradited to the United States for the release of secret U.S. documents, marking the end of a 13-year legal struggle.
On May 20, two judges will announce whether they are satisfied with U.S. assurances that Assange, 52, would not be subject to the death penalty and could claim First Amendment rights to free speech if tried for espionage in the U.S.
Assange’s legal team suggests that he could be on a flight to the U.S. within 24 hours of the decision, or he could be released from custody, or he could face further prolonged legal battles.
Protesters have gathered early outside the court on May 20, tying yellow ribbons to the iron railings, holding signs, and chanting “Free, free Julian Assange.”
Assange’s wife Stella, along with his brother and father, were expected to be in court. She had previously stated that Assange wished to attend the hearing.
WikiLeaks published a large number of classified U.S. military documents about Washington’s activities in Afghanistan and Iraq, including diplomatic cables—a significant breach in U.S. military history. The U.S. government aims to bring the Australian-born Assange to trial on 18 charges, most related to the Espionage Act, alleging that his actions with WikiLeaks were reckless and compromised national security.
Supporters worldwide view the prosecution as unjust, an attack on journalism and free speech, and a retaliatory measure for causing embarrassment.
Several human rights organizations, media bodies, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and other political leaders have called for the case to be dropped.
If the High Court approves the extradition, Assange’s legal options in the UK are exhausted, and his lawyers will seek an emergency injunction from the European Court of Human Rights to prevent deportation until a full hearing can be arranged.
If the U.S. submissions are rejected, Assange will be allowed to challenge his extradition on three grounds, potentially delaying an appeal until 2025.
Stella Assange has pledged to continue fighting for his freedom regardless of the outcome.
“We are living day by day, waiting for decisions. This has been our reality for years,” she said in an interview.
She added, “If he is extradited, our family will continue to fight until he is free.”
with PA
