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An activist in Piccadilly Circus wears a hat carrying a good number of Free Assange badges.

On Saturday 2 September, Assange solidarity activists worldwide held an Australian Embassy Day appealing to the Australian government to intervene in the politically driven case against Julian Assange. In London they gathered initially outside Australia House on the Strand between 3 and 5 pm before continuing the protest at Piccadilly Circus from 4 to 6 pm.

They were also demonstrating against the continued imprisonment of Julian Assange and the US extradition proceedings, for revealing the truth about US, UK and other Western war crimes, the mass surveillance of their populations and other crimes.

Meanwhile, the war crimes themselves go largely ignored and the political leaders responsible for them are not only immunized against prosecution, but several are growing wealthy on the basis of their contacts with their overseas accomplices across the Middle East and elsewhere.

Apart from last Saturday's protest, there are also weekly protests in solidarity with Assange outside Australia House in London every Wednesday between 3 and 5 pm.

There are many good reasons why Assange should be released, but arguably the three most important are as follows -

Freedom of Speech: Assange's case raises important concerns about freedom of the press and whistleblowers' rights, which are crucial for a transparent society.

Health Concerns: Julian Assange's physical and mental health deteriorated in prison. Releasing him could provide access to better medical care and reduce the risk of serious health issues.

Human Rights: His prolonged detention without trial or conviction goes against fundamental human rights principles.