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As of January 2026, eight Palestine Action-affiliated prisoners in UK custody have been on hunger strike since November 2025, protesting prolonged pre-trial detention and demanding bail, fair trials, and de-proscription of their group. Four remain on strike with rapidly deteriorating health, including hospitalizations and neurological damage risks. The UK government refuses direct engagement despite mounting legal and medical warnings.
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Recent UK legislation and court cases reveal a significant crackdown on peaceful protests, with laws expanding police powers and criminalizing non-violent activism. Human rights groups warn these measures threaten democratic freedoms, as the government seeks to control dissent amid international scrutiny. The debate continues as the legislation advances in parliament.
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Umer Khalid, linked to Palestine Action and suffering from muscular dystrophy, ended his 16-day hunger strike after medical emergency. He demands bail, prison reforms, and transparency over UK military actions in Gaza. His health remains critically at risk as he refuses food and water.
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Eighteen Senegalese football fans detained in Morocco over AFCON hooliganism are protesting their pre-trial detention by fasting. Their lawyer states they are waiting for charges, while authorities deny hunger strike claims. The trial resumes next week amid legal delays.
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On 13 February 2026, the UK High Court ruled the government's proscription of Palestine Action as a terrorist group unlawful, citing disproportionate interference with free speech and assembly rights. The ban remains temporarily in place pending appeal. Since July 2025, over 2,700 arrests have been made under the ban, sparking widespread protests and legal challenges.