A potentially fatal hunger strike in progress has become the longest in recent history, with the UK government maintaining silence on the matter. The critical situation involves six individuals who have been on hunger strike in British prisons for 46 days, surpassing the previous record set during the 1981 Irish Republican Army hunger strikes in HMP Maze/Long Kesh. The hunger strike initiated by Palestine Action on November 2 is now in its second month.
The hunger strikers, namely Qesser Zuhrah, Amu Gib, Heba Muraisa, Teuta Hoxha, Kamran Ahmed, and Lewie Chiaramello, have been fasting as a form of protest while awaiting trial for their involvement in direct action demonstrations supporting Palestine. Two other prisoners who were on hunger strike have since ceased their protest.
These hunger strikers have put forth five demands, including the end of prison censorship, immediate bail for Palestine Action prisoners, fair trials, the removal of the ‘terror’ classification for Palestine Action, and the closure of all Elbit Systems sites in the UK. The hunger strikers are yet to be convicted of any offenses and are still in custody awaiting trial dates, with some facing prolonged detention periods before their trials.
Supporters, including Zarah Sultana MP and two doctors, have been advocating for the urgent hospitalization and independent medical evaluation of Qesser Zuhrah, who has been on hunger strike for 46 days and recently experienced severe health issues. Despite the efforts of activists and legal representatives, the hunger strikers’ situation remains precarious, with concerns rising about potential fatalities if immediate action is not taken.
Various public figures and organizations have called for intervention to prevent any tragic outcomes, highlighting the risks faced by the hunger strikers and the need for urgent government attention. The hunger strike protest, which has gained support from prominent figures in the music, sports, and film industries, emphasizes the plight of the hunger strikers and the urgency of their demands for justice and fair treatment.