In a move that signals an end to the Wikileaks founder’s long legal saga, UK Interior Minister Priti Patel on Friday approved the extradition of Julian Assange to the US.
In a statement, the British government’s portfolio said the country’s courts “did not consider that extradition would be oppressive, unfair or an abuse of process”. “They also did not find it incompatible with human rights, including the right to a fair trial and freedom of expression,” adding that, “while in the US, he will be treated appropriately, including with regard to his health.”
The decision, however, does not end the Australian’s ten-year battle in justice, because, according to the ministry’s statement, he retains the “right to appeal the decision within 14 days”. Thus, he can appeal to the High Court in London, which must give its approval for the challenge to proceed.
Ultimately, Assange can take his case to the UK Supreme Court. On the other hand, if the request is denied, he will have to be extradited within 28 days.
The Australian is wanted by US authorities on 18 criminal charges, including espionage related to the Wikileaks leak of military records and confidential diplomatic cables that the US government says has endangered lives.
Supporters of Assange, who consider him an anti-establishment hero, say he is persecuted for exposing wrongdoings in US conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq and that the indictment is a politically motivated attack on journalism and freedom of expression.
“A dark day for press freedom and British democracy,” said Stella, Assange’s wife. “Julian’s road to freedom is long and winding. Today is not the end of the fight. It’s just the beginning of a new legal battle.”
Before the UK government authorized the extradition, a British judge had ruled that the Australian should not be deported, saying his mental health problems could drive him to suicide if convicted and held in a maximum security prison.
But the decision was reversed after the US presented a package of guarantees, including a promise that Assange could be transferred to Australia to serve any sentence.
