In a significant development in Julian Assange’s protracted legal saga, a British court ruled on Tuesday that the WikiLeaks founder will not face immediate extradition to the United States.

The decision, handed down by London’s High Court, acknowledges Assange’s potential for success in three key grounds for appeal against a 2022 ruling permitting his extradition to answer espionage charges.

However, prior to determining whether Assange can proceed with a full appeal, the court has stipulated the need for specific assurances from the U.S. regarding Assange’s treatment.

Failure to provide these assurances would automatically grant him leave to appeal.

Conversely, if the assurances are provided, both parties will have the opportunity to present new arguments at a hearing scheduled for May 20.

A final decision on the leave to appeal will be made thereafter, contingent upon the adequacy of the assurances received, the Daily Beast has reported.

The U.S. seeks to prosecute the 52-year-old journalist for his involvement in the publication of classified U.S. intelligence documents dating back to 2010.

Written by B.C. Begley