WikiLeaks Founder Assange Loses Extradition Appeal
American authorities have successfully overturned a British judge’s ruling, paving the way for the extradition of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange.
Assange, who faces charges in the US for allegedly conspiring to hack into government computers, had been fighting against extradition on the grounds that he would not receive a fair trial and could face the death penalty or life in prison.
The High Court in London ruled on Friday that Assange could be extradited to the United States, overturning a previous decision by a lower court judge who had blocked the extradition. The High Court judge, Lord Justice Timothy Holroyde, said that he was satisfied that the US had given assurances that Assange would not face the death penalty or life in prison and that he would be treated fairly in the US justice system.
Assange’s lawyers have said that they will appeal the decision to the UK Supreme Court. Assange remains in Belmarsh Prison in London, where he has been held since 2019.
The extradition of Assange to the US has been a contentious issue, with supporters arguing that he is a political prisoner and should not be extradited. Critics of Assange, however, argue that he is a criminal who should be held accountable for his actions.
Comments