The fate of Julian Assange, the enigmatic founder of WikiLeaks, hangs in balance as legal proceedings in the UK draw to a bewildering climax. Assange, who has spent the last several years in Belmarsh Prison, faces potential extradition to the United States, where he is charged with espionage and could be sentenced to 175 years in prison. The charges stem from his role in the publication of classified documents, which exposed US war crimes among other governmental secrets.
A Critical Moment at the UK Courts
As Assange’s final appeal plays out in the UK courts, voices from around the globe are rallying for his freedom. Stella Assange, his wife, has ominously stated that the outcome of this hearing could very well determine whether Assange “lives or dies.” This dire assessment underscores the gravity of the extradition threat and its potential to set a chilling precedent for press freedom worldwide. [source]
DEVELOPING: If you would like to see Julian Assange freed, simply like this post or say “free Julian Assange!”
NOTE: Julian Assange’s final appeal in the UK is taking place today, and Stella Assange says it will determine whether he lives or dies. He faces 175 years in prison… pic.twitter.com/MQxeJjgdh5
— Simon Ateba (@simonateba) February 20, 2024
Outside the courts, a vibrant chorus of support has gathered. High-profile activists, journalists, and politicians have spoken up, advocating for Assange’s immediate release. Among them is Jeremy Corbyn, who made a passionate appeal outside the court, emphasizing the fundamental role of journalism in holding power to account. [source]
Jeremy Corbyn speaks to @SkyNews outside court as Julian Assange hearing concludes
On Assange: "That's what a journalists job is, to hold those in power, elected politicians and eveyone else to account, we have got to protect journalists" #FreeAssange pic.twitter.com/mEd9xGN2L7
— WikiLeaks (@wikileaks) February 21, 2024
Meanwhile, a petition for Assange’s pardon has garnered attention, spearheaded by voices like Robert Kennedy Jr., who praised Assange as a “heroic whistleblower.” [source]
Please SIGN THIS PETITION for the immediate pardon and release of Julian Assange, the publisher and activist who founded WikiLeaks and is now in jail facing life imprisonment and extradition. He’s a heroic whistleblower who stood up for democracy and against the surveillance… pic.twitter.com/mCl7RkrmD7
— Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) February 19, 2024
The Debate Over Journalism and Espionage
The crux of the US argument for Assange’s extradition lies in the assertion that his actions went beyond the scope of responsible journalism. US lawyers have argued that Assange’s publication of unredacted classified documents endangered lives, a claim that has been hotly contested by Assange’s defenders. They assert that prosecuting Assange under espionage laws constitutes an unprecedented attack on journalistic freedom, one that could deter future whistleblowers from coming forward. [source]
Julian Assange speaking in 2011: "The goal is to use Afghanistan to wash money out of the tax bases of the US and Europe through Afghanistan and back into the hands of a transnational security elite. The goal is an endless war, not a successful war" #FreeAssangeNOW pic.twitter.com/GoaaCrCTPS
— WikiLeaks (@wikileaks) February 21, 2024
Despite these vehement arguments, US government lawyers maintain that Assange’s case is not a matter of silencing journalism but prosecuting a breach of national security. This standpoint has faced scrutiny, particularly in light of revelations regarding alleged plots by the CIA to assassinate Assange, which have been discussed in court and reported by media like CNN. [source]
CNN on the explosive Pompeo/CIA plot to kill Julian Assange which aired in court today
— Stella Assange #FreeAssangeNOW (@Stella_Assange) February 20, 2024
Global Implications and Rising Support
The implications of Assange’s case are far-reaching, sparking debates about the freedom of the press, government accountability, and human rights. Supporters argue that what is at stake transcends Assange’s personal fate, touching upon the very essence of democratic values. His prosecution, they argue, could set a dangerous precedent for journalists globally, essentially criminalizing the act of exposing government misdeeds. [source]
The US is exerting the right to put any foreign citizen in a supermax prison for the rest of their life merely for publishing information it doesn’t like, that should terrify everyone.
Julian Assange's case is the most important press freedom case in modern history @kennardmatt pic.twitter.com/Vf9zi5nctK
— Double Down News (@DoubleDownNews) February 21, 2024
In light of this critical juncture, public support for Assange has swelled, marked by protests, online campaigns, and vocal advocacy from diverse sectors. High-profile endorsements and public demonstrations reflect a growing consensus among many that Assange’s prosecution poses a threat not just to one man, but to the bedrock principles of transparency and freedom that underpin democratic society.
As the world watches, the outcome of Assange’s appeal will not only determine his personal fate but also shape the future trajectory of journalism, free expression, and governmental accountability on the global stage. With so much hanging in the balance, the call for Julian Assange’s freedom has never been more urgent.
also read:The Global Uprising for Julian Assange: A Call for Truth, Justice, and Freedom
Divya