UK 'threatens' to raid Ecuador embassy over Assange

[fujiyama]

95. Great precedent being set here

Ah, the Brits, supposedly so civilized.

How often do countries actually raid foreign embassies? While I definitely do not want to trivialize rape charges, and yes while I understand there is an extradition order from Sweden, there have been cases of people committing heinous crimes (like murder), claiming diplomatic immunity, and then running away to their home country. I'm reminded of that case with the Israeli that murdered someone in the US. He subsequently fled. I believe the US has an extradition treaty with Israel.

Now, I understand this is quite different. Assange is not a diplomat for one and he isn't an Ecuadorian citizen either. Still, the idea that the UK would consider invading sovereign territory over an extradition order is in itself quite rare and shows how badly they want Assange. I very rarely buy into complex conspiracy theories, but legal systems can be corrupted (even in those like Sweden). The whole case against him sounds like BS from what I've heard (I don't know the details though). As for the UK courts, I trust them about as much as our own (which is not very much - especially on matters of "national security&quot considering the UK is a quasi police state now.

Wikileaks have thus far been quite embarrassing to both the UK and US governments (they didn't make any of the pro-Iraq war leaders look good including John Howard of AU). It's no surprise they're all so hellbent in going after him. I don't particular have strong feelings for Assange one way or the other, but the fact is, he's not a US citizen and he didn't steal the info himself. It was passed on to him by Bradley and he merely published it. I don't understand how the US feels it prosecute him for that.

As for those defending the UK actions, I'm not going to bother arguing and most likely you've been ignored anyways. The UK has once again proven it is nothing more than a pathetic lackey for our corrupt government. Fuck them.