Australia’s Prime Minister Urges Release of Julian Assange
Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has called for an end to the imprisonment of Julian Assange following a temporary halt in his extradition to the United States.
UK High Court Grants Assange Permission to Appeal
The UK High Court has granted Assange permission to appeal his extradition, frustrating US efforts to put him on trial for leaking US military secrets.
Prime Minister’s Plea for Assange’s Freedom
Albanese reiterated his calls for Assange’s release, stating that there is “nothing to be served” by his continued incarceration.
Support for Assange
Supporters of Assange gathered outside The Royal Courts of Justice in London to protest and celebrate the news of his appeal being granted.
Assange’s Legal Battle
Assange will launch a narrow appeal to determine if he will receive free speech protections in the US legal system as a foreigner.
Background
Assange has been detained in the high-security Belmarsh prison in London since April 2019, following his time at Ecuador’s London embassy. The US authorities seek to try him for leaking confidential documents related to US military and diplomatic activities.
Call to End Prosecution
Albanese has expressed concerns about the prolonged prosecution of Assange, emphasizing the need for a resolution.
US Extradition Approval
The UK government approved Assange’s extradition in June 2022, leading to his current legal battle.