Former Carleton professor Hassan Diab was committed for extradition to France on June 6.
Although Ontario Superior Court Justice Robert Maranger said France’s case was “weak” and “the prospects of conviction in the context of a fair trial, seem unlikely,” he signed the committal, according to the group Justice for Hassan Diab.
The final decision for extradition now rests with Justice Minister Rob Nicholson.
Diab was originally arrested in Ottawa in 2008 in connection with an October 1980 synagogue bombing in France.
Four were killed and more than 40 injured. His passport indicates he wasn’t in France at the time of the bombing.
His alleged handwriting, however, is on a hotel registration card — evidence that was hotly contested throughout the court proceedings.
In a June 6 statement, Diab maintained his innocence.
“I had nothing to do with what the French authorities allege against me. I am not responsible for what they claim. I was not in France on October 3, 1980, when the hateful attack against the synagogue in Paris took place. I very strongly condemn that attack,” he said.
“I am innocent of the charges against me. I will take every legal opportunity to clear my name and I look forward to the day when I can reclaim my life. I intend to continue my fight in the court and look forward to the Canadian court rectifying this injustice.”