Assange's Appeal Granted in Extradition Case to the US

Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, can appeal an order to be sent to the United States for spying charges. The court in London made this decision, which may make the legal process even longer. The judges ruled in favor of Assange after his lawyers argued that the U.S. did not give enough assurances that he would have the same free speech rights as an American citizen if he was extradited. Assange, who is 52 years old, is facing 17 espionage charges and one charge of computer misuse for publishing classified U.S. documents on his website almost 15 years ago. His wife, Stella, criticized the U.S. for not providing enough guarantees and urged them to drop the case. Assange was not present in court due to health reasons. The U.S. accuses Assange of helping Chelsea Manning steal diplomatic cables and military files that were later published by WikiLeaks. The court's decision was based on a previous ruling in March, stating that Assange could appeal unless the U.S. assured he would not face the death penalty and would have the same free speech protections as a U.S. citizen. Assange's lawyers argue that he could face up to 175 years in prison if convicted. His family and supporters say his health has suffered during the long legal battles, including his time spent in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London. Assange's legal battle has been ongoing for over a decade, and it may come to an end soon in the U.K. He faces a hearing in London's High Court that could result in his extradition to the U.S. or provide him with another chance to appeal. The outcome will depend on the assurances given by U.S. officials regarding Assange's rights during the trial. If Assange wins the appeal, the case may continue, further prolonging the legal process.