Eight prisoners are currently on hunger strike while awaiting trial for alleged offenses connected to the now-banned group Palestine Action. The protests highlight a complex situation involving accusations of property damage, political activism, and the handling of prisoners refusing food.
Who is on Hunger Strike?
The hunger strike began on November 2nd with Qesser Zuhrah, 20, and Amu Gib, 30, both held at HMP Bronzefield in Surrey. Heba Muraisi, 31, at HMP New Hall, joined them the following day. The group expanded to include Teuta Hoxha, 29, Kamran Ahmed, 28, and Lewie Chiaramello, 22, who is limiting food intake every other day due to his diabetes. Jon Cink and Umer Khalid previously participated, ending their strikes of 41 and 13 days respectively, after being hospitalized.
The activists face differing charges and trial dates. Cink, Khalid, Chiaramello, and Gib are accused of damaging two military jets during a break-in at RAF Brize Norton in June, with a trial not scheduled until 2027. Zuhrah, Muraisi, Hoxha, and Ahmed are accused of involvement in a 2024 break-in at Elbit systems, an Israeli-linked defense firm, and are scheduled to go on trial in May of next year at the earliest. All those accused deny the charges.
What are the Activists Demanding?
The prisoners are demanding immediate bail, an end to the ban on Palestine Action, and a halt to restrictions on their communications. They have also called for the closure of Elbit systems. Lawyers representing the group have criticized Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy for refusing to meet with them, alleging a failure to adhere to Ministry of Justice policy regarding hunger strikes.
Government Response and Prison Service Protocol
The government has maintained that “rules and procedures” are being followed, according to statements from Keir Starmer. Prisons Minister James Timpson stated the Prison Service is “very experienced” in handling hunger strikes and has “robust and working” systems in place, but confirmed no meetings with prisoners or their representatives would occur. Commons leader Alan Campbell stated the government was “not trying to break the bodies” of the protesters.
The Prison Service is prohibited from force-feeding prisoners who refuse food or fluids. However, representatives of the hunger strikers have alleged inconsistent or delayed medical attention. Concerns were raised regarding delayed ambulance response for Qesser Zuhrah and intermittent vital sign checks, as well as reported shortages of electrolytes at HMP Bronzefield. The Ministry of Justice maintains that prisoners’ wellbeing is continually assessed and appropriate action is taken.
Health Risks
Since the hunger strikes began, seven prisoners have been hospitalized, with five requiring multiple admissions. Dr. James Smith, an emergency physician, has stated that some of the strikers are “slowly dying,” explaining that after three weeks without sufficient nutrition, the body begins to break down muscle and organ tissue, leading to potentially life-threatening dysfunction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Palestine Action?
Palestine Action is a group that was banned under terrorism legislation in July 2025 after a legal challenge.
What charges do the activists face?
Some are accused of breaking into RAF Brize Norton and damaging military jets, while others are accused of involvement in a break-in at Elbit systems. All deny the charges.
What is the government’s position on meeting with the hunger strikers?
The government, through multiple officials, has stated it will not meet with the prisoners or their representatives, citing established procedures.
As the hunger strikes continue, and with concerns raised about the health of those involved, what role might external mediation play in finding a resolution that addresses both the activists’ demands and the government’s commitment to due process?
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