The son of jailed Palestinian political leader and hunger striker Marwan Barghouti launched a social media campaign on Wednesday under the hashtag #saltwaterchallenge (#تحدي_مي_وملح).
The challenge involves drinking a glass of water mixed with salt, and then nominating two others to do the same. Its rules are reminiscent of the Ice Bucket Challenge.
Why salt water?
To show solidarity with hundreds of "hunger strikers who have been living on only salt water for more than a week so far," Aarab Marwan Barghouti says in a video that has since gone viral.
People and celebrities respond on social media:
"Let's all stand in solidarity with our detainees who are currently on a hunger strike."
"In solidarity with our detainees, I accept the #saltwaterchallenge."
"Paltel employees collectively participate in the #saltwaterchallenge."
"In solidarity with our detained heroes."
Marwan Barghouti's health decline
Marwan Barghouti's health has gravely declined over the past week and the Palestinian leader who lead the strike is reportedly refusing medical treatment.
In response to reports over his illness, an Israeli Prisons Service spokesperson dismissively said: "If Barghouti feels bad, all he has to do is eat," The New Arab reported.
Hundreds of Palestinian prisoners began an open-ended hunger strike on April 17 in protest against the inhumane detention conditions they continue to face.
The strike started on April 17, or Palestinian Prisoners Day. Activists and sympathizers to the Palestinian cause dedicate the month of April to Palestinian detainees.
During the month, supporters all over the world organize events and activities to stand in solidarity with Palestinian captives.