The ongoing hunger strike, now one of the longest in recent history, has reached a critical and potentially fatal phase. Despite the urgency of the situation, government officials have maintained silence.
Six individuals in British prisons have gone without food for 46 days, marking a significant milestone surpassing the duration of the 1981 Irish Republican Army hunger strikes at HMP Maze / Long Kesh. During those protests, 10 men lost their lives due to the lack of political intervention, with Bobby Sands MP being the first fatality on day 66 of his hunger strike.
Initiated on November 2nd, the hunger strike by members of Palestine Action is now entering its second month. Among the hunger strikers are Qesser Zuhrah and Amu Gib on day 46, Heba Muraisa on day 45, Teuta Hoxha on day 39, Kamran Ahmed on day 38, and Lewie Chiaramello on day 24.
These individuals are refraining from eating in protest against their incarceration and pending trials related to their activism in support of Palestine. While two others have ended their hunger strikes, the remaining activists, known as the Filton 24 and Brize Norton 4, face charges linked to direct actions against Elbit Systems sites in the UK.
Despite being unconvicted, the detainees have been held in custody for an extended period awaiting trial. The situation is exacerbated by delayed court dates, such as in the case of Gib, arrested in July 2025 but not expected to stand trial until January 2027.
The hunger strikers have outlined five demands, including an end to prison censorship, immediate bail for Palestine Action prisoners, fair trials, removal of the ‘terror’ classification, and the closure of all Elbit Systems facilities in the UK.
Advocacy groups like Prisoners4Palestine have raised concerns about the deteriorating health of the hunger strikers and called for urgent medical attention. The failure to address these issues could lead to tragic outcomes reminiscent of past hunger strikes.
Efforts to draw attention to the plight of the hunger strikers have gained momentum, with notable figures from various industries signing an open letter urging government intervention. The solidarity displayed by supporters underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for prompt action to prevent further harm to the hunger strikers.