Assange’s supporters say concerned over his fate if extradited to US
Ahmed Kaballo
Press TV, London
The world watched the proceedings at Woolwich Crown Court in London as Julian Assange the co-founder of Wikileaks fights extradition to the United States. In what amounts to a virtual death sentence, if found guilty, he could face up to 175 years in prison for publishing material that his supporters argue were in the public interest as they exposed US war crimes.
His case is historic as it is the first time a journalist based in the UK faces extradition to the United States for distributing information. Yet some worry that that Assange's right to a fair trial is not being respected.
The key contention between the prosecution representing the United States government and the defense representing Julian Assange is whether or not the Wikileaks co-founder can legally be extradited under the 2003 extradition treaty between Washington and London which appears to prohibit extradition for political offences.
The extradition hearing will continue on May 18, with an expected three weeks of evidence, but a decision could take months and is likely to be appealed against by the losing side. Whatever the outcome and for Assange's supporters and journalists worldwide, the stakes could not be higher.
Julian Assange's extradition case is being described by many as history in the making because of its implications and what it will mean for the future of journalism.
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