The mother of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has defended her son, saying there is “no way” he is guilty of rape.
Christine Assange has spoken out in support of the elusive activist warning of “massive forces” are out to get him.
She told Australia’s Channel 7: “Julian, rape, straight out of my guts – no way.
“Julian would not rape.”
She added: “It’s a worry of course. I’m no different to any other mother.
“Every time the news goes on I’m glued to it. Is he OK?
“These massive forces have decided they’re going to stop him and they’re not going to play by the rules.”
She said she was angry at the Australian government, particularly Prime Minister Julia Gillard.
She said Ms Gillard had just “gone in there full bore and accused him of being a criminal.”
“I just think, well hang on a minute, this is one of your citizens here.
“You shouldn’t be leading the charge.”
Describing her son as “brave”, she insisted: “A lot of people would not be able to withstand the pressure he is under.”
And when asked if she thought her son had been betrayed, she replied: “At the moment, yes.”
Referring to rallies supporting Julian in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, she said: “He is very heartened by the worldwide response from just ordinary people.”
Assange, 39, is currently being held in custody in London, facing extradition to Sweden where he is wanted for questioning on sexual assault charges.
The alleged offences relate to two separate incidents during a visit to Sweden in August.
He strenuously denies the charges and has vowed to fight the extradition.
