That Julian Assange now appears to be on his way to being free is a victory for quiet diplomacy, according to his mother Christine Assange.
The Australian government believes that the case has dragged on for too long, nothing is gained by keeping Assange imprisoned any longer.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been clear about his stance, according to a spokesperson:
The Assange case has dragged on for far too long and there is nothing to be gained by continuing to keep him imprisoned.
The spokesperson does not want to comment on reports that Assange may soon be back in Australia but says the government is aware that a deadline has been set for a hearing (in an American court). Until it is concluded, which is scheduled to take place on Wednesday local time, it is not appropriate to comment further.
Julian Assange's mother, Christine Assange, says she is grateful that her son's long ordeal appears to be over.
"It demonstrates the importance and power of quiet diplomacy", she says in a statement according to Australia's public service channel ABC.
She says that many have exploited her son or the case to drive their own interests and agendas. Therefore, she says, she is grateful that there have also been those who have put Julian Assange's health first.
Assange's father, John Shipton, describes it as his son having been imprisoned in one form or another over the past 15 years, years that should have been his most productive. But now, freedom and a life together with his children and wife await.
It appears that Julian will be free to return to Australia, says Shipton.
