JERUSALEM (JTA) — A Palestinian jailed in Israel ended his 55-day hunger strike after Israel agreed to free him.
Khader Adnan, 37, stopped the strike on Sunday night after Israeli authorities said they would release him in two weeks, his attorney told the Palestinian news agency Maan. Israel agreed after Adnan withdrew his demand that Israel guarantee that it would not rearrest him.
The announcement came days after the International Committee of the Red Cross expressed concern that Adnan was near death.
Adnan was protesting his being held in administrative detention, without charge or trial. Other prisoners also joined the strike.
A prisoner can be held in administrative detention, without charges being brought, for up to six months. The detention can be renewed indefinitely.
It is the second time that Adnan has undertaken a prolonged hunger strike. In 2012, he went on a 66-day strike to protest his administrative detention. Adnan was later released in exchange for ending his hunger strike.
He has been held by Israel since being rearrested nearly a year ago for “activities that threaten regional security.”
The decision to release Adnan comes as the Knesset debates versions of a bill that would allow the force feeding of hunger-striking prisoners.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
