TORONTO – Two U.S. military deserters who were denied political asylum in Canada have asked for a court review, arguing authorities rejected them without considering the legality of the Iraq war.
Defense lawyer Jeffry House asked federal court Wednesday to order Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Board to rehear the cases of Jeremy Hinzman and Brandon Hughey. The board rejected their refugee claims last year.
Hinzman, 26, fled to Canada in search of asylum just days before his U.S. Army unit was to deploy to Iraq to fight in a war he says is illegal under international law.
Hinzman faces a court-martial in the United States and up to five years in prison.
The board’s decision in March dealt a blow to other deserters in Canada who argue that serving in Iraq would force them to commit crimes against civilians.
Hughey, 20, who was with the 1st Cavalry in Fort Hood, Texas, is also seeking a review of his case. He was denied refugee status in September.
About 20 Americans have fled the military and applied for refugee status in Canada, House said. He estimated as many as 200 others were hiding in Canada, waiting to see how Hinzman’s case is played out before coming forward.
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