The life of Jordanian detainee Hamad Al-Kharsha is under threat as he continues his open hunger strike for 278 days. His family has expressed grave concern about his deteriorating health, stating that he now relies on medical devices and is unable to move. Al-Kharsha’s vital signs have been lost, and he survives solely on intravenous fluids.
In an effort to address the situation, the judge at the Military State Security Court has issued a summons for Al-Kharsha to attend the upcoming session. The responsibility for any further deterioration in his health condition has been placed on the government by his family, highlighting the unprecedented decline he has experienced.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has also expressed worry regarding Al-Kharsha’s deteriorating health. He has been on a hunger strike for 229 days in protest against his arbitrary detention. The organization emphasizes the importance of ensuring his right to a fair trial, calling for attention to his case.
Al-Kharsha was initially arrested by Jordanian authorities on January 13th following his social media posts. He was subsequently transferred to the Military State Security Court and charged with “undermining the system of governance.”
A report by the US Department of State on human rights in Jordan in 2022 documented the arrest of over 200 individuals for political reasons, including criticizing the government, its foreign policies, government officials, official entities, or engaging in online activities such as repeating slogans or posting content.
