Terrorist Linked to 7/7 Bombings Set for Release from Psychiatric Facility Amid Security Concerns
April 3, 2025
Aswat was previously sentenced to 20 years in prison for attempting to establish an extremist training camp under the direction of hate preacher Abu Hamza in 1999.
After being extradited to the US in 2014, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy and providing material support to al-Qaeda, leading to a reduced sentence of seven years due to his time in detention.
The July 7 bombings in 2005, which resulted in 52 deaths and around 800 injuries, continue to prompt debates about the management of released terrorists like Aswat.
Following his return to the UK in late 2022, Aswat was detained at a psychiatric hospital due to national security fears, but he is now expected to reunite with his family in Batley, West Yorkshire.
Aswat was instrumental in setting up a US al-Qaeda camp in Oregon in 1999 and had connections to key figures involved in the 7/7 bombings.
In 2005, calls were traced from Aswat to the 7/7 bombers shortly before their attacks, which resulted in significant loss of life.
Aswat was arrested in Zambia with bomb-making materials and a terrorist manual, later deported to the UK where he fought extradition on mental health grounds.
Haroon Aswat, a 50-year-old terrorist linked to the 7/7 London bombings, is set to be released from a secure psychiatric facility despite being deemed a significant risk to public safety.
A High Court judge ruled that Aswat's mental health treatment has been effective, allowing for his imminent release under the Mental Health Act, though police assessments indicate he remains a risk to national security.
Aswat has been diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, which can lead to aggressive behavior, raising concerns about his potential to radicalize vulnerable individuals.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp has expressed concerns about Aswat's potential danger and is urging for legal reforms to allow for proper risk assessments of individuals like him.
Upon his release, Aswat will be subject to a notification order requiring him to register his address and financial details with the police, but he will not be monitored or tagged.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources

Daily Mirror • Apr 3, 2025
Al-Qaeda 'mastermind' linked to 7/7 Underground bombings set to walk free in UK
Express.co.uk • Apr 3, 2025
Terrorist linked to 7/7 bombings to be freed from jail despite remaining a 'risk'