Closing arguments opened Monday in the landmark national-security trial of 77-year-old media mogul Jimmy Lai, after the Hong Kong court postponed proceedings last week because of health concerns and severe weather. Lai, founder of the now-shuttered Apple Daily, wore a portable heart monitor and was given medication for recent bouts of heart palpitations, but prosecutors told the three-judge panel he is fit to attend court. Lai has pleaded not guilty to two charges of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and one charge of conspiring to publish seditious material. Prosecutor Anthony Chau argued that Lai’s extensive contacts with foreign officials demonstrated an “unwavering intent” to solicit sanctions against Hong Kong and mainland Chinese authorities, conduct that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment under the Beijing-imposed security law. The marathon trial began in December 2023 and has stretched well beyond its original 80-day timetable, with Lai held in solitary confinement for roughly 1,700 days. The case is being closely watched by Western governments and rights groups; U.S. President Donald Trump said last week he would “do everything I can” to secure Lai’s release. Hong Kong officials maintain the businessman is receiving a fair hearing and adequate medical care.