Al-Qaeda Figure Linked to 7/7 Set for Release in UK Amid Risk Concerns

Haroon Aswat, a 50-year-old al-Qaeda operative linked to the 7/7 London bombings, is set to be released from a UK psychiatric facility, despite concerns about his ongoing risk to public safety. Aswat, who was previously a close associate of hate preacher Abu Hamza, has undergone treatment for mental health issues and authorities have been unable to conduct a full risk assessment due to these circumstances. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp has expressed alarm that those posing a danger to the public cannot be adequately evaluated, calling for urgent legal reform. Aswat has a history of terrorist activity, including plans to establish a training camp in Oregon and connections to the 7/7 bombers, which resulted in 52 fatalities. Although a High Court judge acknowledged evidence of an ongoing risk, a notification order will require Aswat to keep police updated on his whereabouts and activities upon release. Critics, including former counter-terrorism officials, warn that his release could lead to further violence, citing past cases where released terrorists committed serious offenses.