The hunger strike inside British prisons has taken a sharp turn after Kamran Ahmed, an activist held on remand over charges linked to Pales-tine Action, was taken to hospital in his second week without food. Ahmed and five others began a rolling hunger strike earlier this month after the Home Secretary did not respond to a letter raising concerns about their treatment, including demands for bail, access to communication, and lifting the ban on the group. Ahmed was arrested in late 2024 and has been held in Pentonville while awaiting trial on charges that include criminal damage and aggravated burglary.

His condition deteriorated quickly. According to Prisoners for Pales-tine, Ahmed collapsed with low blood sugar and had been suffering from dizziness, breathing problems, chest pain, and a sudden drop in weight. His sister Shahmina said he had passed out alone in his cell and that an ambulance later refused to take him because he was on hunger strike. When another ambulance was requested, the prison said there was no need, and the family was left without updates after he was taken to hospital. The Ministry of Justice said it could not share prisoner health information with unverified callers.

The strike has widened as other detainees report rapid weight loss and serious health concerns. Prisoners at Bronzefield and New Hall joined the action in early November, and groups supporting them say their requests for electrolytes and medical care were repeatedly ignored until nine days into the strike. Over one hundred doctors have written to NHS England warning about the situation, and Jeremy Corbyn has pressed ministers for urgent action regarding one of his constituents. Prison authorities say all detainees are managed according to national procedures, while supporters argue the situation reflects a deeper pattern of neglect toward those linked to Pales-tine Action.