Healthcare Concerns for Hunger Strikers in UK Prisons

In a growing crisis, six remand prisoners connected to the banned protest organization, Palestine Action, are on hunger strike, leading to serious health concerns and warnings from hundreds of healthcare professionals. Over 800 doctors, nurses, therapists, and caregivers have expressed alarm that these individuals are not receiving adequate medical attention, which poses a significant risk to their lives.

Urgent Health Risks Identified

On Thursday, attention mounted as healthcare experts sent a collective letter to Justice Secretary David Lammy. They cautioned that, without immediate action, there is a very real possibility that these young British citizens could die in prison without having been convicted of any crime. The hunger strikers, whose ages range from 20 to 31, include:

• Qesser Zuhrah
• Amu Gib
• Heba Muraisi
• Teuta Hoxha
• Kamran Ahmed
• Lewie Chiaramello (on a partial strike due to diabetes)

Facing Critical Health Issues

James Smith, an emergency physician and university lecturer, spoke at a press conference in London, alongside family members of the hunger strikers, supportive politicians, and activists. Smith stated plainly, “The hunger strikers are dying,” highlighting the urgency of their situation.

Background of the Charges

The six individuals are being held in different prisons for their alleged involvement in break-ins at the UK branch of Elbit Systems, an Israeli defense firm, as well as a Royal Air Force base in Oxfordshire. They have denied charges of burglary and violent disorder, asserting that their actions were a form of protest against perceived complicity of the UK government in Israeli war crimes.

Demands of the Hunger Strikers

The hunger strikers are making several demands, including:

• Immediate bail.
• The right to a fair trial.
• The de-proscription of Palestine Action as a banned group.
• Closure of all Elbit sites.

After weeks of hunger striking, some participants are reported to be in critical condition. Smith pointed out that prolonged starvation can cause severe health problems, including heart and kidney failure. He stressed the importance of proper medical care, advocating for the hunger strikers to be transferred to a hospital if necessary, rather than remaining in prison where care may be insufficient.

Conditions of the Hunger Strikers

Teuta Hoxha, who has been on a hunger strike for 40 days, is experiencing troubling symptoms, including low blood pressure and chest tightness. Her younger sister, Rahma, expressed her desperation, urging Lammy to meet with lawyers for her sister’s safety. Family members have reported conditions that exacerbate their health risks, such as exhaustion, nausea, and a lack of communication from the prisoners.

Calls for Action

The families and supporters are demanding that Justice Secretary Lammy take their concerns seriously. While there have been protests demanding the quick transfer of these individuals to hospitals, there has been little official response. Reports indicate that officials claim the prisoners are receiving appropriate medical assessments and support, yet many are skeptical of these assurances given the prisoners’ deteriorating conditions.

Growing Public Support

Public support for the hunger strikers continues to swell, with petitions gathering thousands of signatures and numerous MPs joining in the call for urgent government intervention. Concerns mount as reports of the hunger strikers’ health worsen, indicating that the time for action is slipping away.

Conclusion

The situation surrounding the hunger strikers in UK prisons raises significant concerns about their health and human rights. As healthcare professionals and family members plead for immediate action, the need for compassionate intervention grows more critical. The longer the prisoners are denied adequate medical attention, the greater the risk becomes.

Key Takeaways

• Six remand prisoners in the UK are on hunger strike, facing grave health risks.
• Healthcare professionals warn of the potential for death without urgent action.
• The prisoners demand immediate bail and a fair trial, emphasizing their right to a dignified treatment.
• Public and political pressure is mounting for a government response to this urgent situation.