Palestine Action Activists on Hunger Strike Face Critical Health Risks

Eight Palestine Action activists currently imprisoned in the UK and awaiting trial are in critical condition due to an ongoing hunger strike, according to a doctor’s assessment.

Dr. james Smith, an emergency physician and lecturer at University College London, states the group – accused of break-ins and criminal damage in support of Palestine Action – urgently requires specialized medical attention. This warning follows increasing calls for government intervention from doctors and politicians.

Former Labor leader Jeremy Corbyn has highlighted “regular breaches of prison conditions and prison rules.” Several of the hunger strikers, protesting their pre-trial detention, have already been hospitalized.

At a press conference in south London, Dr. smith stated plainly: “The hunger strikers are dying.” He expressed alarm over what he describes as substandard monitoring and treatment within the prison system. More than 200 members of the British medical Association recently raised concerns in a letter to the BMA.

“It is my view, as an NHS doctor, that the complexity of the hunger strikers’ care needs must now be managed with regular specialist input if not continuous monitoring in hospital,” Dr.Smith added.

Yesterday, Qesser Zuhrah, one of the hunger strikers, was transported from HMP bronzefield to a hospital following demands for medical intervention. Ms. Zuhrah was on day 46 of her hunger strike at the time.

MP Zarah Sultana reported today that Ms. Zuhrah’s family confirms she is safe and continuing her hunger strike. Nearly 900 health professionals have written to key figures – including Deputy Prime minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy, Health Secretary wes streeting, and senior officials in the NHS and prison system – demanding the same level of care.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has maintained that existing “rules and procedures” are being followed.