Full Breakdown
Hunger Strikes of Palestine Action Activists in UK Prisons
1/2/2026, 12:14:40 AM
Overview of the Hunger Strikes
Four activists from the proscribed Palestine Action group are currently on hunger strike in various UK prisons, protesting their detention and treatment. The hunger strikes have been ongoing for over 50 days, with the activists demanding immediate bail, a fair trial, and the de-proscription of Palestine Action, which was classified as a terrorist organization by the UK government on July 2, 2025. The group is known for its protests against Israeli military actions and its alleged involvement in break-ins at the UK subsidiary of Elbit Systems and a Royal Air Force base.
Key Figures of the Hunger Strikers
The four remaining hunger strikers are Heba Muraisi, Kamran Ahmed, Teuta Hoxha, and Lewie Chiaramello, aged between 20 and 31.
- Heba Muraisi, 31, is held at HMP New Hall and was arrested in November 2024 for her role in a raid on Elbit Systems, which reportedly caused over $1.34 million in damages. She has expressed concerns about medical negligence and her transfer away from her support network.
- Kamran Ahmed, 28, is in HMP Pentonville and has been hospitalized multiple times due to severe weight loss during his hunger strike. He was also arrested for the Elbit Systems raid.
- Teuta Hoxha, 29, is at HMP Peterborough and has reported serious health issues, including heart palpitations and memory deterioration.
- Lewie Chiaramello, 22, has type 1 diabetes and is on a modified hunger strike, fasting every other day. He faces charges related to an incident at RAF Brize Norton.
Official Statements & Responses
Activists and supporters have criticized the UK government for its inaction regarding the hunger strikers' demands. Audrey Corno, a pro-Palestine activist, stated, “The UK government has forced their bodies to a breaking point.” The group Justice for the Hunger Strikers has called for government engagement, highlighting the deteriorating health of the detainees and the potential for preventable deaths in custody.
James Timpson, the UK Minister of State for Prisons, stated that the government has a robust system for managing hunger strikes and will not engage directly with the strikers or their representatives, citing the separation of powers in the justice system.
Criticism & Opposition
The designation of Palestine Action as a terrorist organization has faced backlash, with critics arguing that the group's actions do not equate to terrorism. UN experts have raised "grave concern" over the treatment of the hunger strikers, emphasizing the state's duty of care and compliance with international human rights laws. Over 800 doctors have urged intervention, warning of severe health risks to the strikers.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Reports indicate that four other Palestine Action activists previously on hunger strike have ended their protests, primarily due to health concerns. However, they have expressed intentions to resume their hunger strikes in the future. The exact health status of the remaining hunger strikers varies, with some reports indicating severe deterioration, while others highlight ongoing medical negligence claims.
What's Next
The trials for the hunger strikers are expected to begin between April and January 2027, with the activists continuing to push for their demands. The situation remains critical, with ongoing protests and calls for government accountability regarding the treatment of the detainees.
