UK High Court Grants Julian Assange Appeal Against Extradition

Geneva, The UK High Court has permitted Wikileaks founder Julian Assange to appeal his extradition to the United States, marking a significant development in a complex legal battle. The decision was influenced by concerns over the insufficiency of US assurances regarding Assange’s treatment, thereby postponing his potential transfer under serious charges related to espionage.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, UN Special Rapporteur on Torture Alice Jill Edwards highlighted the broader implications of the case, stressing its roots in human rights and the protection of individuals exposing potential war crimes. “I welcome the High Court’s decision to allow the case to proceed to a full appeal. This is a terribly complex case, but at the heart of it are issues around human rights and values we hold as a society and the protections afforded to those who disclose potential war crimes,� Edwards stated.

The court’s ruling means Assange’s appeal will be reconsidered, stalling his extradition to face 18 charges in the US, primarily under the Espionage Act of 1917, linked to the alleged unlawful release of diplomatic cables and other sensitive documents through WikiLeaks.

Edwards has previously urged the UK government to protect Assange’s life and address his deteriorating physical and mental health due to the protracted legal proceedings. She also expressed hope for a resolution that avoids further extensive legal disputes, involving governments like Australia, Assange’s homeland, to safeguard his well-being.

Julian Assange has been confined in the UK since 2019, currently held at Belmarsh prison, and faces 18 criminal counts in the United States concerning the unlawful acquisition and disclosure of classified defense documents. The Special Rapporteur on Torture vowed to continue monitoring the case closely.