‘Dire situation’: Lebanese prisoners on hunger strike for 18 days
Summary
Around 400 prisoners in Lebanon’s largest jail have been on hunger strike for over two weeks, refusing food, water, and medication. They are protesting the suspension of a law that would have allowed them to be released or have their sentences reduced, amid severe overcrowding and poor conditions in Lebanese prisons.Key Facts
- The hunger strike began on September 12 and involves about 400 inmates at Roumieh prison.
- Prisoners are protesting the suspension of a general amnesty law aimed at reducing prison overcrowding.
- Lebanon’s prisons hold about 8,500 inmates, nearly double their capacity.
- Many prisoners were arrested due to their support for the Syrian revolution against President Bashar al-Assad.
- Ambulances frequently take away prisoners due to their worsening health from the hunger strike.
- Overcrowding is severe, with prisons operating at 330% of their intended capacity.
- More than 40 prisoners died in 2025 due to medical neglect, torture, or suicide.
- Judicial delays cause many inmates to spend years in jail without trial.
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