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Current hunger strike 'longest in Palestinian history'


BETHLEHEM (Ma'an) -- Jailed Palestinians who have been refusing meals since April 24 are taking part in the longest collective hunger strike in Palestinian history, a prisoner rights group said Monday.

"This is the longest mass hunger strike among prisoners in Palestinian history since a 45-day strike in 1976," Addameer said in a report on its website as the current strike neared its 48th day.

"The hunger strikers remain steadfast in their demand to end the policy of administrative detention."

Some 125 prisoners in Israeli jails began a hunger strike on April 24 against Israel's policy of holding Palestinians in custody indefinitely without charge or trial.

Hundreds have joined the strike since then, and others have taken part in one-day solidarity strikes.

The report said that nearly 80 prisoners are being held in civilian hospitals in Israel.

Additionally, it quoted lawyers as saying doctors have been threatening to force-feed prisoners if they lost consciousness. more

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