Australian Lawmakers Rally for Assange’s Return Amidst Extradition Appeal

In a significant move, Australia’s House of Representatives has passed a motion urging the United States and Britain to facilitate the return of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to his home country. Independent lawmaker Andrew Wilkie spearheaded the motion just ahead of Mr. Assange’s impending appeal against extradition to the U.S. on espionage charges.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was among the 86 lawmakers who backed the motion, signaling bipartisan support for Assange’s cause. Assange’s prolonged legal battle, marked by his imprisonment in London’s Belmarsh Prison, has garnered widespread attention and concern. His brother, Gabriel Shipton, highlighted the urgency of the situation, warning of potential extradition to the U.S. soon.

The parliamentary support provides impetus for the Australian government to advocate for Assange’s repatriation, although diplomatic language suggests a cautious approach. Assange’s case underscores broader debates on press freedom, national security, and the role of whistleblowers in democratic societies.