Palestinian Activist Embarks on Hunger Strike Over Water Refusal

Remand Prisoner Umer Khalid Enters Final Stage of Hunger Strike

London, United Kingdom - A 22-year-old remand prisoner affiliated with Palestine Action is planning to stop drinking fluids as part of his ongoing hunger strike. Umer Khalid has been on a hunger strike for 13 days and will cease drinking fluids starting Saturday.

Khalid’s actions are in response to the government’s handling of his case, which includes allegations of complicity in Israel’s war against Palestinians. He is seeking immediate bail, an end to alleged censorship in prison, an inquiry into British involvement in Israeli military operations in Gaza, and the release of surveillance footage from Royal Air Force (RAF) spy flights that flew over Gaza on April 1, 2024.

Khalid is among five activists accused of breaking into RAF Brize Norton airbase in June. The incident caused millions of pounds worth of damage, according to the British government. Khalid denies the charges against him and claims that his actions were part of a nonviolent protest against Israel’s genocidal war against Palestinians.

Three other hunger-striking remand prisoners affiliated with Palestine Action ended their protests earlier this week, claiming victory. The prisoners had been on a rolling hunger strike since November. The UK government has stated that it has no power over the issue of bail and that prison welfare procedures are being followed.

Khalid’s demands have been met with mixed responses from critics. The opposition Labour Party blocked a bill last year backing an official inquiry into Britain’s involvement in the war on Gaza. The Ministry of Defence has also refused to disclose further details about video footage from RAF surveillance planes that flew over Gaza on the day of the Israeli strike that killed aid workers.

Khalid is currently receiving fluids with electrolytes, sugars, and salts while he continues his hunger strike. His health is at risk due to dehydration, which can be fatal in a short time.

Source: Al Jazeera