Concerns Over the Health of Hunger Strikers in UK Prisons
In London, a significant outcry has emerged regarding the welfare of six remand prisoners affiliated with the group Palestine Action, who are currently on hunger strike. A collective of over 800 healthcare professionals has urged prompt action to address what they perceive as a critical health crisis. They warn that without immediate intervention, these young detainees are at a formidable risk of serious health complications, or even death, while still awaiting trial.
Who Are the Hunger Strikers?
The hunger strikers, ranging from ages 20 to 31, include:
- Qesser Zuhrah
- Amu Gib
- Heba Muraisi
- Teuta Hoxha
- Kamran Ahmed
- Lewie Chiaramello (who participates in a partial strike due to diabetes)
Urgent Calls for Action
Dr. James Smith, an emergency physician and university lecturer, spoke emphatically at a news conference, stating, “Put simply, the hunger strikers are dying.” He emphasized the urgent need for intervention, as these individuals are now in critical health situations.
These detainees are being held across five different prisons, accused of having participated in break-ins at facilities linked to the Israeli defense company Elbit Systems. They maintain their innocence against charges such as burglary and violent disorder. The group, which was declared a terror organization by the UK government last July, alleges that the UK is complicit in alleged war crimes committed by Israel.
The Prisoners’ Demands
The hunger strikers are calling for immediate bail, a fair trial, and the retraction of the terrorism label against Palestine Action. They also demand the closure of all Elbit facilities.
Dr. Smith noted that after three weeks without food, a person’s body begins to use vital fat and muscle reserves to keep basic functions running. “Prolonged starvation can lead to severe complications, including heart failure and potential sudden death,” he warned.
Healthcare Professionals Speak Out
In their open letter, the healthcare professionals highlighted the urgent medical needs of the hunger strikers, calling for twice-daily assessments, daily blood tests, and comprehensive medical oversight. “If these essential care requirements are not met, the hunger strikers should receive treatment in a hospital setting,” they stated.
Family Concerns
The families of the hunger strikers have also expressed their fears. Teuta Hoxha, now on her 40th day of hunger strike, suffers from significant health problems including low blood pressure and shortness of breath. Her sister Rahma has passionately called for a meeting between the Justice Secretary, David Lammy, and their lawyers, emphasizing the critical nature of Teuta’s condition.
Individuals visiting Qesser Zuhrah have reported that she’s unable to communicate effectively and is showing signs of serious health decline. Her family expressed distress over her becoming increasingly unresponsive.
Demonstrations and Public Pressure
Recent protests regarding the treatment of these detainees have gained traction, drawing activists, including healthcare workers and politicians. Calls for Lammy to take action are growing louder, reflecting a broad concern for the situation of the hunger strikers. In response to ongoing pressure, a Ministry of Justice spokesperson maintained that all protocols for managing food refusal in prison are being followed.
Conclusion
This escalating situation surrounding the hunger strikers highlights not only the urgent medical needs of these individuals but also raises broader questions about the ethics of remand practices within the UK justice system. The demand for immediate government action is becoming increasingly imperative to ensure the safety and well-being of those being held without trial.
Key Takeaways
- Over 800 healthcare professionals have raised concerns over the health of hunger strikers in the UK.
- The prisoners are demanding bail, fair trials, and the closure of Elbit facilities.
- Public demonstrations continue to pressure the Justice Secretary for immediate action.
- Healthcare experts warn that failure to address their medical needs could result in loss of life.