Lebanese prisoners face crisis as hunger strike causes seven deaths

A humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Lebanese prisons as a hunger strike over a disputed general amnesty law leads to multiple deaths. Since the Lebanese Parliament voted on the law on August 12, seven prisoners have died, five of whom died as a direct result of striking against food, water, and medication.

The protests are centered in Roumieh Central Prison, specifically in Buildings B and D, and have expanded to include detainees in Baalbek Prison. Approximately 532 prisoners are currently participating in the strike, including 470 in Building B, 42 in Building D of Roumieh, and 22 in Baalbek.

Medical conditions are deteriorating rapidly, with 51 prisoners reported in critical condition and requiring hospitalization. The crisis stems from a legal challenge filed by the ‘Strong Lebanon’ bloc to annul the general amnesty law, a matter that currently awaits a decision from the Constitutional Council. Prisoners and their families are calling for the immediate reactivation of the amnesty to end the life-threatening situation.