For more than 15 years of incarceration, seven of which were spent in avoidance for survival, time has been nothing but abundant for Julian Assange.
Time's abundance, however, could soon end if the US's application to extradite Assange is successful.
The UK Court of Appeal may inevitably be Assange's last stand, akin to the Alamo, where George Custer's fate was sealed.
If that happens, history will again 'live in infamy' - an irony all too obvious.
It's not Japan but the US - the very same country that went to war to defend freedom is now desperate to rob Assange of his right to life.
History has nothing but a short memory, and Assange will not only have been robbed of his freedom for 15 years but now, potentially, his life.
Assange has miraculously avoided the clutches of the US - February 20 is a day that beckons freedom - but most importantly, freedom for Julian Assange.
Another victim of US criminality is Gonzalo Lira.
Lira is dead.
Lira met his fate at the hands of the Ukrainians - the US abandoned its own citizen, allowing Ukraine to murder Lira.
Like Assange, Lira, a journalist, died at the hands of the Ukrainians for exposing the truth about Ukraine and the US.
Until the commencement of Assange's two-day hearing on February 20, Assange's fate remains unknown.
The protracted legal battle has reached a critical point, as it is also a significant test for journalistic freedom, extradition treaties, and international relations.
Assange's case has sparked global debate over the essence of journalism, protecting whistleblowers, and government transparency.
The UK's Court of Appeal's ruling, to give or refuse leave to Assange to have an appeal hearing, will either lead to Assange's extradition or give him a chance of return to Australia.
The case is more than a legal turning point for Assange; it's a critical juncture for press freedom and the public's right to know.
Greg Barns SC, a prominent adviser to Assange's Australian campaign team, underscored the gravity of the peril Assange faces should the US be successful with its extradition request.
"This is far more than a legal battle for one individual. It's about the fundamental principles of press freedom and the right of the public to be informed about government actions.
An extradition would not only be a travesty for Julian but a devastating blow to journalists worldwide."
"The pursuit of Assange by the US," Barns argues, "demonstrates a concerning disregard for legal standards and human rights."
"Given the past attempts to harm Julian and the potential for inhumane treatment in the US, we're deeply troubled by the assurances of fair treatment.
According to Barns, the case poses a potential for 'cruel and unusual punishment', "which we cannot take lightly," referring to revealed plots against Assange and the broader implications of his extradition.
The US's pursuit of Assange and the role of the Australian government have always been points of contention.
Despite being aware of Assange's precarious situation, Canberra has been consistently called upon to demand the US call off its pursuit of Assange.
"Australia needs to step up its efforts and use its diplomatic leverage more effectively. Protecting Julian is about upholding our shared democratic values," Barns said.
A particular concern is the chilling effect on global journalism if Assange's extradition proceeds.
"The implications are dire."
"It sets a precedent where journalists anywhere could be extradited to the US for publishing sensitive material.
"This is a direct threat to the foundational principles of free speech and the public's right to know," Barns warns.
The implications of Assange's extradition extend far beyond his personal fate, according to Barns.
"It would set a chilling precedent for journalists and publishers everywhere. Essentially, it signals that exposing uncomfortable truths about government actions can lead to severe punishment."
However, if the US's extradition attempt fails, Assange could be released and potentially return to Australia.
While the outcome is favourable, according to Barns, It doesn't undo the years of confinement and psychological strain Assange has endured.
"Julian's physical and mental health has significantly deteriorated. This case has taken a tremendous toll on him, ," Barns said.
Amidst this legal and diplomatic maelstrom, Assange's wife, Stella, has organised the "Day X" protest slated for February 20-21.
The global call to action aims to rally support for Assange and press freedom, highlighting the case's significance and mobilizing public opinion.
"Day X is not just a demonstration in support of Julian but a stand for the rights of journalists and publishers everywhere.
"We're at a crossroads for press freedom, and the world must take notice," Barns said, emphasising the importance of public engagement and international solidarity.
As Assange's health continues to decline after years of confinement, the humanitarian aspect of his case becomes increasingly pressing.
"What's at stake, isn't only Julian's life but the essence of democracy itself, the ability to hold those in power accountable,” Barns said.
“Julian's plight should galvanise all who cherish transparency and accountability to demand justice."
I love this article however last 20 years proved how little is worth human law and how law is one way street.
The advice is enforceable under international law and also under the TREATY made with tbe
United States