Health of Hunger Strikers Deteriorates in UK Prisons

A coordinated hunger strike involving prisoners affiliated with Palestine Action in the UK is raising significant health concerns as participants experience alarming deterioration. As of now, Heba Muraisi, aged 31, has entered the 65th day of her hunger strike, reporting muscle spasms and breathing difficulties. Meanwhile, Kamran Ahmed, 28, who is on day 58 of his protest, has experienced intermittent hearing loss. The third participant, Lewie Chiaramello, 22, has been fasting every other day for 44 days due to his type 1 diabetes.

This hunger strike is notable for being one of the largest coordinated actions in the UK since the protests by IRA prisoners in 1981, which resulted in the deaths of ten individuals. Historical context shows that the earliest death in that period occurred after 46 days, with four others dying within a range of 59 to 61 days. Notably, Bobby Sands survived for 66 days during his hunger strike.

Dr. James Smith, an emergency physician and lecturer at University College London, remarked that the three participants are already “well into the critical phase,” which typically begins after three weeks of fasting. He emphasized that health conditions can decline rapidly and warned of irreversible damage.

Ahmed, currently held at Pentonville Prison in north London, expressed his resolve in a statement shared through an intermediary. He noted the government’s indifference, stating, “I intend to continue my hunger strike; perhaps they wait for me to leave in a body bag or be hospitalised for a sixth time.” He also highlighted the emotional toll of his situation, commenting on the pain in his chest and the struggle to maintain hope amidst such challenges.

The hunger strike commenced on November 2, 2023, with demands that include immediate bail, the closure of UK sites belonging to Israeli arms company Elbit Systems, and an end to the censorship of prisoners’ communications. Muraisi, Ahmed, and Chiaramello have spent over 18 months in custody before facing trial, significantly exceeding the UK standard pretrial custody limit of six months.

Five other prisoners who previously participated in hunger strikes have since paused their actions, the latest being Teuta Hoxha, who ended her fast after 60 days. Ahmed expressed concern over the implications of his potential death, questioning whether it would matter due to his UK citizenship. “Are the Palestinians disposable numbers?” he asked.

Dr. Smith dismissed claims from critics doubting the health status of the hunger strikers, asserting, “Their bodies are breaking down as we speak.” He explained that advancements in medical knowledge and the type of supplementation provided may have delayed catastrophic outcomes, but risks such as heart problems and infections remain ever-present. Hearing and visual impairments are particularly concerning, as they may indicate neurological issues.

In response to the ongoing situation, James Timpson, the UK prisoners minister, stated that prison healthcare teams provide care through the NHS and continuously monitor the health of those involved. He reiterated that the prisoners are charged with serious offenses, and decisions regarding remand are made by independent judges. Timpson emphasized that it would be “entirely unconstitutional and inappropriate” for ministers to interfere in ongoing legal cases.

The UK Ministry of Justice has expressed that agreeing to the prisoners’ request for a meeting would create “perverse incentives” for others to endanger themselves in similar ways. As the hunger strikers continue to fight for their demands, the situation remains critical, drawing attention to the broader issues surrounding their incarceration and treatment.