LOC21:47
18:47 GMT
WASHINGTON, Feb 19 (KUNA) -- The United States refrained on Tuesday to
comment on Palestinian detainees' hunger strike but urged all parties to
refrain from actions "that could exacerbate the situation".
"We have seen reports that Palestinian prisoners are currently on a hunger
strike. We urge all sides to refrain from actions that could exacerbate the
situation. Obviously, the government of Israel will have more information for
you on the situation", said State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland in a
press briefing.
"In our annual country report on human rights practices, we address the
issue of administrative detention in Israeli prisons", she added while
referring reporters to those comments made in the past by the US
administration.
A number of Palestinian prisoners have been on a hunger strike protesting
Israeli policy of "administrative detention" and reports mention that their
life could be at risk. Among the 4,500 Palestinians captured by Israel, 178
are being held in "administrative detention". (end)
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