The current hunger strike, which stands as the longest in decades, has now reached a critical and potentially fatal phase. Despite the urgency of the situation, the government has chosen to remain silent.

Time is running out as six individuals in British penitentiaries have abstained from food for 46 days. This hunger strike surpasses the duration of the 1981 Irish Republican Army hunger strikes in HMP Maze / Long Kesh.

The Palestine Action hunger strike, initiated on November 2, has now surpassed a month in duration, with the participants continuing to abstain from food as they await trial for their involvement in direct action protests supporting Palestine.

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. Their protest stems from the demand for fair trials, immediate bail for Palestine Action prisoners, and the cessation of prison censorship and ‘terror’ classification of Palestine Action.

These individuals are still awaiting trial and have not been convicted of any crimes. The hunger strikers are advocating for their civil rights, which are protected by the European Convention of Human Rights, a framework adhered to by UK law.

The hunger strikers have put forth five demands, including an end to prison censorship, immediate bail for prisoners, fair trials, the removal of the ‘terror’ label from Palestine Action, and the closure of all Elbit Systems sites in the UK.

Supporters, including Zarah Sultana MP and two doctors, have gathered outside HMP Bronzefield demanding urgent medical attention for Qesser Zuhrah, who has reported severe health issues on day 46 of her hunger strike.

The hunger strike has garnered attention from various sectors, with over 200 prominent figures signing an open letter, urging government intervention to prevent potential deaths among the hunger strikers. The signatories include notable names from the music, sports, and film industries, emphasizing the critical situation faced by the hunger strikers.

As the hunger strike continues and the health of the participants deteriorates, there is mounting pressure on authorities to address the situation promptly and ensure the well-being of those involved. The hunger strikers are fighting for their rights and deserve fair treatment and consideration for their demands.