WikiLeaks Founder Julian Assange Facing Extradition After Losing Challenge

Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, is facing extradition from Britain to the United States after losing a challenge that would prevent that. Assange, who is wanted on 18 charges related to the release of confidential U.S. military records and diplomatic cables, will, however, renew his appeal next week according to a report by Reuters. The British High Court ruled that Assange had no legal grounds to challenge the extradition decision.

Previously, a British judge ruled against Assange’s extradition, citing concerns about his mental health and the risk of suicide if held in a maximum security prison. However, the decision was overturned on appeal after the U.S. authorities provided assurances, including the possibility of transferring Assange to Australia to serve any sentence.

WikiLeaks gained prominence in 2010 for releasing classified files and diplomatic cables, marking one of the largest security breaches in U.S. military history. As a journalist, Assange’s platform highlighted war crimes and incredible breaches of public trust by the U.S. military. His efforts to bring crimes and actions committed by the government to light have been met with furious retaliation despite the protections journalists should receive, even when reporting on sensitive information. To punish Assange for his work is to set the precedent that journalists who delve too deeply into government affairs will be made an example of.

Assange’s case has drawn international attention and sparked debates regarding freedom of the press and the potential implications for whistleblowers. The renewed appeal next week will be a crucial moment in determining Assange’s fate as he continues to fight against extradition to the United States.

The latest issue of Bitcoin Magazine Print is the Gatekeepers Issue, featuring Assange on the front. “We lead the editorial of The Gatekeepers Issue with an open letter to Julian Assange titled Dear Julian,” a download page for the cover story explains. “In this piece, the author likens Assange’s actions to those of ancient Greek Titan, Prometheus.” To read the full story, you can input your email to receive a virtual copy of the open letter — and to fully appreciate the Gatekeepers Issue, you can sign up for a subscription here.