Julian Assange Extradition Denied
British Court Rejects Request from United States
Alleged Espionage Charges Against Wikileaks Founder
In a major development in the long-running case, a London court on January 4, 2021, denied the United States' request to extradite Julian Assange. The ruling marks a significant victory for Assange and his supporters, who have long argued that his extradition would violate his human rights and the freedom of the press.
The U.S. government has accused Assange of espionage charges related to the publication of classified documents by Wikileaks, a whistleblower website founded by Assange. The U.S. alleges that Assange's actions endangered national security and put lives at risk.
Assange's supporters argue that his actions were protected by the First Amendment and that his extradition would set a dangerous precedent for the prosecution of journalists. They also express concern that Assange would face harsh treatment in the U.S. prison system.
The decision by the London court is expected to be appealed by the U.S. government. However, the ruling is a major setback for the U.S. effort to prosecute Assange and a significant victory for those who believe in the importance of freedom of the press.
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