Wealthy US activist James 'Fergie' Chambers faces Spanish court over US extradition bid

James 'Fergie' Chambers, a wealthy leftwing activist and heir to Cox Enterprises, attended a two-hour hearing in Spain's high court on Friday regarding a US extradition request. The request includes accusations of supporting Hamas, stemming from international money laundering charges and donations to groups aiding Palestinians in Gaza, alongside charges related to 2023 protests against an Israeli weapons manufacturer. During the hearing, Chambers's defense questioned the US citizen and highlighted irregularities in the extradition request, while the prosecutor asked no questions. Chambers detailed his philanthropic work and participation in protests, contrasting sharply with the US depiction of him as a violent backer of Hamas. The Spanish court is set to decide next week whether to approve the extradition. If approved, Spain's council of ministers has the power to reverse the decision before upcoming national elections.