Palestinian hunger striker in critical condition

Akram Rikhawi, who began refusing food in April, is seeking an release from prison due to health issues

JERUSALEM (AP) — An advocate said a Palestinian prisoner is in critical condition after a nearly three-month hunger strike.

Akram Rikhawi started fasting on April 12, just before 1,200 other prisoners began refusing food to demand better conditions.

Israeli authorities reached a deal with participants in the wider strike by mid-May, easing some restrictions. Rikhawi has continued to protest his detention by refusing food.

According to Physicians for Human Rights-Israel, the 39-year-old Rikhawi seeks early release from his nine-year sentence due to his ailments, which include diabetes and asthma. Advocate Anat Litvin on Thursday said “he doesn’t have much time.”

Rikhawi was convicted of transporting suicide bombers, planting explosives and targeting Israeli troops.