DEMONSTRATIONS took place in Gaza and around the world on Saturday in solidarity with hunger-striking Palestinian political prisoners Khalil Awawdeh and Raed Rayan. 

The pair, who are being held in administrative detention, have been without food for more than 100 days. They have been joined by 115 Palestinians demanding their release. 

Forty prisoners from Islamic Jihad started a hunger strike in protest against Mr Awawdeh’s treatment on Thursday while 75 members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine joined today.

Mr Awawdeh’s health has seriously deteriorated and he is unable to speak or walk independently. He briefly suspended his hunger strike on the 111th day as he was told he was to be released. 

Instead, his administrative detention order, under which he can be held indefinitely without charge or trial, was extended. 

He has been denied contact with his family or legal team during his hunger strike. 

Mr Rayan is now confined to a wheelchair and in extreme pain. His detention period was extended in April. 

The Samidoun Palestinian Political Prisoner Solidarity Network has called for actions at Israeli embassies to highlight their plight and for support for a boycott of Israeli goods.