Full Breakdown
Imprisoned Palestine Action Activists Face Life-Threatening Hunger Strike
12/22/2025, 4:03:53 AM
Critical Health Concerns for Hunger Strikers
Eight Palestine Action activists in the UK are currently on hunger strike, with some entering a critical health phase after refusing food for up to 48 days. Among them is 20-year-old Qesser Zuhrah, who has lost a significant amount of weight and has been hospitalized multiple times due to severe health complications. Medical professionals, including Dr. James Smith, an emergency physician, have warned that the hunger strikers are at imminent risk of irreversible damage and death if their conditions are not addressed with urgent medical care.
Zuhrah, along with fellow activists Amu Gib, Heba Muraisi, Teuta Hoxha, and Kamran Ahmed, are protesting their detention and the government's designation of Palestine Action as a terrorist organization in July 2025. This designation has criminalized their activism and led to their current charges, which include aggravated burglary and criminal damage related to protests against Israeli military actions.
Background of the Hunger Strike
The hunger strike began on November 2, 2025, coinciding with the anniversary of the Balfour Declaration. The activists are demanding immediate bail, an end to the proscription of Palestine Action, and improved communication with their families and legal representatives. Their actions have drawn significant public attention, with over 800 healthcare professionals signing a letter urging the government to intervene.
The activists have been held in pre-trial detention for over a year, far exceeding the UK's six-month custody limit before trial. Their trial is scheduled for April 2026, but they have been denied bail despite their deteriorating health.
Official Responses and Criticism
The UK government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has faced criticism for its handling of the situation. Starmer has stated that "rules and procedures" are being followed regarding the hunger strike, while Justice Secretary David Lammy has refused to meet with the activists' legal representatives. This has led to accusations of negligence and a lack of urgency in addressing the life-threatening conditions of the hunger strikers.
Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and other MPs have publicly called for the government to engage with the activists' families and legal teams. Corbyn emphasized the need for the government to uphold the rights of the prisoners, stating, “They are not criminals; they are remand prisoners.”
Health Risks and Medical Concerns
Medical experts have expressed alarm over the treatment of the hunger strikers, citing inadequate monitoring and care within the prison system. Dr. Smith has highlighted that the strikers are "dying" and require continuous medical oversight, which they are not receiving. Reports indicate that some strikers have been shackled during hospital visits, raising ethical concerns about their treatment.
Zuhrah's health has particularly deteriorated, with reports of chest pains, dizziness, and severe weakness. Her family and supporters have voiced fears that she may not survive without immediate intervention.
Conclusion and Future Implications
The ongoing hunger strike represents a significant moment in the UK’s handling of political dissent and prisoner rights. As the activists continue their protest, the situation remains critical, with potential implications for the government's approach to political activism and human rights. The activists' demands for justice and humane treatment resonate beyond their individual cases, reflecting broader issues of state repression and the treatment of political prisoners in the UK.
The next steps for the hunger strikers remain uncertain, but the urgency for government action is clear, as families and supporters continue to advocate for their health and rights.
