Three hunger strikers associated with Palestine Action have decided to end their 73-day protest after achieving one of their main objectives. Kamran Ahmed, Heba Muraisi, and Lewie Chiaramello made the announcement following the denial of a significant government contract to defense contractor Elbit Systems UK, a key demand of the hunger strikers.
Elbit Systems lost the bid for a £2 billion contract that would have involved training 60,000 British troops annually, as confirmed today. Heba Muraisi, aged 31, endured 73 days without food and is currently detained at HMP New Hall, far from her loved ones. Her health has deteriorated rapidly, prompting discussions among Members of Parliament about potentially relocating her to HMP Bronzefield to be closer to her family.
Kamran Ahmed, who has been hospitalized six times, developed bradycardia after fasting for 66 days. His sister criticized the government, emphasizing disappointment, especially given the political affiliation. She mentioned that as a former human rights lawyer, Prime Minister Keir Starmer should feel ashamed.
Lewie Chiaramello, who has type 1 diabetes, was on an alternate-day fasting regimen as part of his hunger strike.
In a recent report, MP Zarah Sultana disclosed that Teuta Hoxha, who ended her 58-day hunger strike, is now facing complications related to re-feeding syndrome, a life-threatening condition resulting from extended periods without food. Zarah Sultana expressed concerns about Teuta Hoxha’s health status, indicating that she has also been hospitalized after terminating her hunger strike.
Elbit Systems UK, a subsidiary of Israel’s largest arms manufacturer, has been a frequent target of activism by Palestine Action due to its involvement in producing armaments used against Palestinians in Gaza. The company’s failed bid for the £2 billion contract to prepare soldiers for combat was led by Raytheon UK, a subsidiary of a major US defense corporation, as per The Times. The Ministry of Defence reportedly chose Raytheon over Elbit Systems after a detailed evaluation process, citing Raytheon as a more suitable candidate without further elaboration.