Activist Hospitalized After 46-Day Hunger Strike in UK

A protester linked to Palestine Action has been hospitalized after entering her 46th day of a hunger strike while in custody. Qesser Zuhrah, aged 20, is among eight remand prisoners refusing food as they await trial for allegedly breaking into a building owned by Elbit Systems, an Israeli arms manufacturer. British media reports indicate that two of the hunger strikers have ended their protest.

Zuhrah’s condition has raised significant concerns, particularly after the UK Prison Service reportedly denied an ambulance entry to HMP Bronzefield despite warnings about her critical state. Activist group Prisoners for Palestine claims that medical assistance was urgently needed, asserting that the government is not responding adequately to the activists’ plight.

In light of these events, Zara Sultana, the Member of Parliament for Your Party, called on David Lammy, the Justice Secretary, to meet with representatives of the hunger strikers, a request that was not fulfilled. This lack of engagement has prompted criticism from within Parliament, with Jeremy Corbyn, also a member of Sultana’s party, highlighting breaches in prison regulations concerning the treatment of prisoners.

Government Response and Public Protests

The UK government has classified Palestine Action as a terrorist organization, yet a growing number of politicians express support for the detained activists. Demonstrations outside the Surrey prison have underscored public concern over the treatment of the hunger strikers. Following protests, the Ministry of Justice building was vandalized with red paint by pro-Palestine activists, an act that signifies escalating frustration with governmental inaction.

During this period, Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the government is adhering to established procedures regarding hunger strikes. Corbyn responded critically, calling Starmer’s approach “shameful” and indicative of a lack of compassion for individuals at significant risk of death.

The activists initiated their hunger strike on the anniversary of the Balfour Declaration of 1917, a pivotal moment in the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine. Over the past two years, the UK has witnessed a surge in pro-Palestine protests, particularly in response to increased violence in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Many in the UK feel the government has continued to support Israel materially while suppressing pro-Palestinian activism.

Police Actions and Public Sentiment

The situation has intensified, with police forces in London and Manchester announcing intentions to arrest individuals chanting the slogan “globalise the intifada.” The term “intifada” translates to “uprising” and is widely associated with Palestinian resistance against Israeli occupation. This police action has been welcomed by some Jewish organizations, who view the chants as a potential threat to Israel, while pro-Palestinian groups have condemned the arrests as an infringement on the right to protest.

Two individuals were arrested in London for participating in demonstrations related to the intifada, reflecting the heightened tensions surrounding this ongoing issue. The response from law enforcement adds another layer to the already complex relationship between the UK government and pro-Palestinian activists.

As the situation develops, the call for dialogue between the government and representatives of Palestine Action remains pressing. Activists and supporters continue to advocate for the hunger strikers, emphasizing the need for urgency in addressing their demands and ensuring their safety.