The ongoing hunger strike by Palestinian activists in UK prisons has reached a critical stage, with six individuals refusing food for 46 days now. This marks the longest hunger strike in recent history, surpassing the 1981 Irish Republican Army hunger strikes in HMP Maze / Long Kesh.
The hunger strike, initiated by Palestine Action on November 2nd, has entered its second month, with participants including Qesser Zuhrah, Amu Gib, Heba Muraisa, Teuta Hoxha, Kamran Ahmed, and Lewie Chiaramello. These individuals are awaiting trial for their involvement in protests supporting Palestine, with two others having withdrawn from the hunger strike.
The hunger strikers are demanding an end to prison censorship, immediate bail for Palestine Action prisoners, fair trials, removal of the ‘terror’ label for Palestine Action, and closure of all Elbit Systems facilities in the UK. They are supported by Prisoners4Palestine, an organization advocating for detainees linked to Palestinian liberation.
Concerns have been raised about the health and well-being of the hunger strikers, particularly after reports of deteriorating conditions. Supporters, including MPs and medical professionals, have urged for urgent medical attention for the hunger strikers, emphasizing the need for immediate hospitalization and independent medical assessments.
Legal representatives have warned of the potential risks to the hunger strikers’ lives, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Calls have been made to government officials, including David Lammy, Wes Streeting, and Keir Starmer, to intervene and prevent any tragic outcomes. The lack of response from authorities has sparked outrage, with over 200 prominent figures from various fields signing an open letter urging the Prime Minister to take action before it’s too late.
As the hunger strike continues, concerns over the protesters’ well-being and the need for fair treatment in the legal system remain at the forefront of the ongoing debate. The public outcry against the handling of the hunger strikers underscores the importance of upholding civil rights and ensuring humane treatment for all individuals involved in the protests.