Excitement abounds as activists, politicians, and journalists anticipate Julian Assange’s return to Australia. The WikiLeaks founder struck a deal with US prosecutors, agreeing to plead guilty to violating espionage laws in exchange for his release. After being held in a UK prison, Assange was seen boarding a plane at Stansted airport, bound for Saipan where he would receive a 62-month sentence for time served.
Supporters hailed the end of Assange’s 14-year legal battle, praising him as a hero while lamenting his lengthy imprisonment. Jodie Ginsberg of the Committee to Protect Journalists applauded his expected release, emphasizing the global implications of his case on press freedom.
‘Day of joy for peace, truth’
Australian leaders expressed relief at the news, with many lauding Assange’s impending return. Political figures from across the globe, including Colombia’s Gustavo Petro and Bolivia’s Evo Morales, welcomed his freedom. In the US, Cornel West and Tulsi Gabbard celebrated Assange’s release while condemning the criminalization of journalism.
Assange’s long-awaited freedom marks a victory for press freedom and human rights, prompting widespread support and admiration from advocates globally.