Israeli tribunal rejects request for release of Palestinian prisoners in hunger strike

Jerusalem 16 Aug : Israeli military court rejected an appeal for the release of a Palestinian prisoner whos health has been deteriorating due to his hunger strike that lasted 165 days in protest against his detention without trial or charges.

The judge stated that the progress of Awawdehs health "rests in his own efforts," and the court cannot but hope he will be able to end the hunger strike.Ahlam Haddad, the lawyer of Awawdeh confirmed that the appeal was denied and stated that "the ruling is a threat for her clients safety," adding she plans to file a petition with the Supreme Court in an attempt to get him released.

Awawdeh was taken to a hospital on Wednesday, after his health state deteriorated.Israel insists it is certain that Khalil Awawdeh is a member of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, while Awawdeh denies the allegations.

The Islamic Jihad demanded his release in the cease-fire agreement that was negotiated by Egypt with Israel that ended the three-day war in the Gaza Strip earlier in August.The group didnt identify the person as an official member.int/sh.