London Court Allows Julian Assange to Appeal Extradition to the US on Espionage Charges

In a significant development from London, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been granted the right to appeal against his extradition to the United States on espionage charges. This decision by the High Court judges, Victoria Sharp and Jeremy Johnson, introduces another chapter in Assange’s prolonged legal battle. Assange faces 17 espionage charges and one computer misuse charge related to the publication of classified US documents by WikiLeaks nearly 15 years ago.

The ruling was met with applause from Assange’s supporters gathered outside the Royal Courts of Justice. Assange, who is currently serving time in a British high-security prison, did not attend the hearing due to health reasons, according to his lawyer. His legal team argued that the US has not provided sufficient assurances that Assange would be protected under free press rights if extradited.

Assange’s lawyers contend that he acted as a journalist in exposing US military misconduct in Iraq and Afghanistan, arguing that his extradition would result in a politically motivated prosecution and a severe miscarriage of justice. On the other hand, American prosecutors assert that Assange’s actions far exceeded journalistic endeavors, accusing him of aiding in the theft and reckless publication of classified documents.

Earlier in March, the High Court judges had dismissed most of Assange’s arguments but allowed for an appeal on specific conditions, including assurances from the US that he would not face the death penalty and would enjoy the same free speech protections as a US citizen. This latest ruling underscores the ongoing legal complexities and the international debate over freedom of the press, national security, and the limits of journalistic privilege.