Full Breakdown
Hunger Strike of Palestine Action Prisoners Raises Alarm in UK
12/10/2025, 11:34:54 PM
Overview of the Hunger Strike
Eight prisoners linked to the activist group Palestine Action are currently on hunger strike across five UK prisons, protesting their detention without trial and demanding the lifting of a ban on their organization. As of December 5, 2025, two of the strikers have refused food for 38 days, with five others having been hospitalized during their protest. The group faces charges related to alleged break-ins at military and weapons facilities, actions they claim were aimed at disrupting UK support for Israel's military actions in Gaza.
Health Concerns and Legal Demands
The health of the hunger strikers is deteriorating rapidly, with reports indicating that five have already been hospitalized. Lawyers representing the group have expressed grave concerns, stating in a letter to Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy that there is a "real and increasingly likely potential" that their clients could die in prison. The strikers are demanding immediate bail, an end to prison interference with their communications, and a fair trial. They also seek the closure of the UK branch of Israeli arms manufacturer Elbit Systems.
Political Reactions and Criticism
British MP Zarah Sultana has accused Lammy of lying about his knowledge of the hunger strike, claiming he was informed through correspondence that he failed to acknowledge. This has sparked further criticism from various political figures, including former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who has called for urgent action regarding the prisoners' treatment. Sultana condemned the lack of media coverage surrounding the hunger strike, likening it to significant historical protests, such as the 1981 Irish hunger strike.
Official Statements & Responses
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice stated that they continually assess prisoners' wellbeing and take appropriate action, including hospital transfers when necessary. However, the ministry has faced backlash for its perceived inaction regarding the hunger strikers' demands. Critics argue that the government is using pre-trial detention as a punitive measure against the activists, many of whom have been held for extended periods without trial.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the extent of media coverage on the hunger strike. While some outlets have reported on hunger strikes in other countries, the situation of the Palestine Action prisoners has received minimal attention. Activists and supporters have raised concerns about this media blackout, asserting that it obscures the severity of the situation and the prisoners' demands.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are concerned that, should this situation be allowed to continue without resolution, there is the real and increasingly likely potential that young British citizens will die in prison, having never even been convicted of an offence.” — Lawyers for the hunger strikers
- “I’ve written to David Lammy, so the fact he’s saying he doesn’t know about this is a lie,” — Zarah Sultana, MP
- “What has happened to the principle of fearless investigative reporting by the British media?” — Jeremy Corbyn
What's Next
The situation remains critical as the health of the hunger strikers continues to decline. Three High Court judges are expected to rule soon on the legality of the ban on Palestine Action, which could significantly impact the ongoing protests and the prisoners' fates. Activists are calling for increased public awareness and support to address the hunger strikers' demands before further health crises occur.
