"Australian Writer Yang Hengjun Given Suspended Death Sentence by Chinese Court"

Australian academic Yang Hengjun has been given a suspended death sentence by a Chinese court after being detained for five years on espionage charges. The Australian government has expressed shock and objection to the decision, advocating for Yang's interests and wellbeing. The sentence, formally described as a death sentence with a two-year reprieve, can be commuted to life in prison. Yang's supporters believe the sentence is an outrageous political persecution, and they are urging Australia to press for his return, citing his critical health condition. Yang's detention has been a point of friction between the Chinese and Australian governments, and despite condemnation of the verdict, efforts to secure his release are proving complicated.