The ongoing hunger strike, now one of the lengthiest in recent memory, has escalated into a critical phase where lives hang in the balance, with governmental silence prevailing. Currently, six individuals in British correctional facilities have abstained from food for an unprecedented 46 days. This surpasses the previous record set during the Irish Republican Army hunger strikes at HMP Maze / Long Kesh in 1981.
The Palestine Action hunger strike, which commenced on November 2nd, is now progressing into its second month. Among the protesters are Qesser Zuhrah and Amu Gib, on their 46th day of fasting, Heba Muraisa on day 45, Teuta Hoxha on day 39, Kamran Ahmed on day 38, and Lewie Chiaramello on day 24. These detainees have chosen to refrain from eating as they face charges related to their advocacy for Palestine. While two other prisoners initially participated in the hunger strike, they have since discontinued their protest.
Dubbed the Filton 24 and Brize Norton 4, the Palestine Action-affiliated demonstrators were involved in actions at RAF Brize Norton and Elbit’s research center in Filton, near Bristol, resulting in significant damage. Despite being incarcerated, none of the protesters have been convicted of any crimes and are awaiting trial dates, a process that has been prolonged. The hunger strikers have put forth five demands, including an end to prison censorship, immediate bail for Palestine Action prisoners, fair trials, revoking the ‘terror’ label on Palestine Action, and closure of all Elbit Systems facilities in the UK.
Prisoners4Palestine, a UK-based prisoner-led collective advocating for Palestinian liberation, emphasizes that the hunger strikers’ cause is crucial to prevent tragedies akin to the Irish hunger strikes of 1981. The group highlights the urgency of addressing the hunger strikers’ deteriorating health and the need for immediate actions to avert potential fatalities. Despite calls for intervention from public figures like David Lammy, Wes Streeting, and Keir Starmer, the response from authorities remains awaited.
Recent reports reveal the deteriorating health conditions of the hunger strikers, with concerns raised by supporters and medical professionals regarding the well-being of individuals like Qesser Zuhrah. The urgency for independent medical assessments and hospitalization has been underscored, as their conditions worsen due to the prolonged hunger strike. The gravity of the situation necessitates immediate attention to prevent any tragic outcomes in British prisons.
As the hunger strike continues to unfold, prominent figures from various industries have joined the chorus of voices urging government intervention to address the escalating crisis. The collective plea emphasizes the fundamental rights of the detainees and the need for swift actions to safeguard their well-being and ensure a fair and just legal process. The solidarity displayed by supporters and the broader community underscores the significance of this humanitarian issue that transcends borders and ideologies.