An-Najah News - In an update on the medical condition of Maher al-Akhras, PHRI’s family medicine specialist and volunteer, Lena Qassem, said that the Palestinian administrative detainee in Israel, , who has been on hunger strike for 85 days in protest against his incarceration without charge, end his fast, damage to his vital organs caused by the prolonged fast could be permanent. 

according Physicians for Human Rights Israel (PHRI) said in a press statement after visiting him on the weekend at his Israeli hospital bed, where he is currently detained, that “although al-Akhras is fully conscious and lucid, he is having trouble concentrating and is suffering bouts of confusion throughout the day. 

He continues to lose weight, has severe dizziness and balance issues. He is unable to stand, walk or turn over in bed.”

Qassem added that al-Akhras has suffered significant muscle atrophy, and his eyesight and hearing have deteriorated.

She added“In view of Maher’s condition, even should he decide to end his strike and gradually return to eating, doing so under medical supervision, it will take him months to recover. 

His body will require quite some time if ever – to repair the damage to various organs caused by the prolonged fast,” said Qassem.