Palestine Action Activist’s Health Worsens After 70-Day Hunger Strike

Health concerns for Palestine Action hunger strikers are escalating as one activist nears the end of her 70-day fast. Heba Muraisi, 31, is experiencing severe health deterioration, prompting alarms from friends and family about her well-being.

Hunger Strike Overview

Muraisi has spent nearly 70 days without food. Friends report significant weight loss and increasing physical distress. Her situation mirrors that of Kamran Ahmed, 28, who was hospitalized for heart complications after 58 days of fasting.

Health Warnings

• Both Muraisi and Ahmed are at high risk of severe health issues.
• Healthcare professionals note they have entered a “critical phase” of their condition.
• Concerns include ‘refeeding syndrome,’ a dangerous situation that can arise when resuming eating after prolonged fasting.

Dr. David Nicholl, a neurologist with experience in prison hunger strikes, emphasizes the acute risks involved. He warns of potential permanent damage, including cognitive disorders and extreme weakness resulting from lengthy fasts.

Conditions and Demands

The hunger strikers are demanding several actions from the government:

• Immediate bail for the imprisoned activists.
• Transfer to prisons that are closer to their families.
• De-proscription of Palestine Action as a banned group.
• A stop to UK support for companies supplying weapons to Israel.

Legal representatives indicate that the detainees may be held beyond the standard six-month custody limit set by UK law. Currently, they face charges including serious offenses that are being handled by independent judges, according to Prisons Minister Lord Timpson.

Community Reaction

A growing number of voices, including 50 MPs, are advocating for the strikers, urging the government to respond with compassion. Concerns about the health risks of prolonged hunger strikes are being highlighted as a pressing issue.

As the situation develops, the health of Muraisi and Ahmed remains in jeopardy. Their plight highlights broader issues regarding treatment of political prisoners and the medical care available to them.