The ongoing hunger strike, now in its most critical phase, marks the longest in decades, with the UK Government maintaining a silence on the matter. Six prisoners in British jails have abstained from food for 46 days, surpassing the previous record set during the 1981 Irish Republican Army hunger strikes at HMP Maze / Long Kesh. Tragically, ten lives were lost during the Irish protests due to political inaction, the first being Bobby Sands MP on the 66th day of his hunger strike.
Initiated on November 2nd, the Palestine Action hunger strike has now reached its second month, with six prisoners adamantly refusing food. The individuals, including Qesser Zuhrah, Amu Gib, Heba Muraisa, Teuta Hoxha, Kamran Ahmed, and Lewie Chiaramello, are awaiting trial for their involvement in direct action protests supporting Palestine. Two other prisoners previously on hunger strike have since halted their protests.
Referred to as the Filton 24 and Brize Norton 4, the Palestine Action-affiliated protesters were allegedly involved in breaking into RAF Brize Norton and causing significant damage to Elbit’s research center in Filton. Despite not being convicted of any offenses yet, these prisoners remain in custody, with their trial dates postponed for years. The hunger strikers have listed five demands, including an end to prison censorship, immediate bail for Palestine Action prisoners, fair trials, removal of the ‘terror’ label, and closure of all Elbit Systems sites in the UK.
Prisoners4Palestine, a UK-based prisoner-led collective, highlights Elbit Systems as Israel’s primary weapons manufacturer and calls for government funding to cease. Urgent action is urged to prevent any casualties among the hunger strikers, with concerns raised over the health of individuals like Qesser Zuhrah. Despite pleas for immediate hospitalization and medical assessment, the response from authorities has been lacking.
Efforts from supporters, political figures, and legal representatives continue to advocate for the hunger strikers, emphasizing the potential risks of fatalities if prompt action is not taken. The situation underscores the importance of upholding civil rights and ensuring fair treatment for all individuals, particularly those awaiting trial. The plea for intervention echoes across various sectors, with notable figures and organizations joining the call for urgent attention to prevent any tragic outcomes.
