The ongoing hunger strike, now one of the lengthiest in recent history, has reached a critical juncture with the lives of the protestors hanging in the balance while governmental authorities maintain a veil of silence.
Six individuals in British correctional facilities have abstained from food intake for 46 consecutive days, marking this hunger strike as the lengthiest since the 1981 Irish Republican Army hunger strikes at HMP Maze / Long Kesh in Northern Ireland.
The Palestine Action hunger strike, which commenced on November 2nd, is now progressing into its second month, with key individuals like Qesser Zuhrah, Amu Gib, Heba Muraisa, Teuta Hoxha, Kamran Ahmed, and Lewie Chiaramello steadfastly refusing nourishment. These individuals are awaiting trial for their involvement in direct action protests in solidarity with Palestine. Notably, two other prisoners have ceased their hunger strike participation.
Referred to as the Filton 24 and Brize Norton 4, the Palestine Action-affiliated protesters engaged in acts like infiltrating RAF Brize Norton and causing damage to Elbit’s research center in Filton. Although none of the protestors have been convicted yet, they remain incarcerated in British prisons, with prolonged wait times for their trial proceedings.
The hunger strikers have put forth five demands, including an end to prison censorship, immediate bail for Palestine Action prisoners, fair trials for the accused, elimination of the ‘terror’ label on Palestine Action, and closure of all Elbit Systems sites in the UK.
Concerns have escalated over the deteriorating health conditions of the hunger strikers, prompting calls for urgent medical attention and independent assessments. Pressure mounts on political figures like David Lammy, Wes Streeting, and Keir Starmer to intervene and address the escalating crisis. Despite outreach attempts by media outlets like The Mirror, responses from these officials have not materialized.
As the hunger strike intensifies, advocates and supporters rally outside HMP Bronzefield, demanding swift hospitalization and medical evaluations for the hunger strikers. The situation has garnered attention from various quarters, including legal representatives and public figures, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.
Efforts to prevent potential fatalities among the hunger strikers have gained momentum, with appeals for immediate action to avert a tragedy similar to the Irish hunger strikes of 1981. A recent open letter signed by over 200 prominent figures highlights the pressing need for government intervention before irreversible consequences unfold.