Medical Experts Warn of Imminent Death for Hunger-Striking Activists

More than 800 medical professionals have issued an urgent warning to Justice Secretary David Lammy, stating that eight imprisoned Palestine Action activists currently on hunger strike face a high risk of death due to inadequate care while being held on remand.

The detainees, aged between 20 and 31, have refused food for weeks, with some reaching 48 days of fasting. Dr. James Smith, an emergency physician at University College London, described the situation as critical, noting that the prisoners require specialist intervention that is currently absent. Five of the strikers have already been hospitalized. The group is part of 33 individuals arrested following direct actions against Elbit Systems and a Royal Air Force base, entities the activists link to the conflict in Gaza.

While 51 members of parliament and peers have urged the government to allow a meeting between the detainees' lawyers and officials, the Ministry of Justice has declined to intervene. Prison Minister Lord James Timpson stated he treats these detainees no differently than other prisoners, while Prime Minister Keir Starmer maintained the government is following established protocols for hunger strikes. The activists are demanding bail, a fair trial, and an end to the state's classification of Palestine Action as a terrorist organization.