In Venezuela, more than 200 political prisoners have initiated a hunger strike to highlight their exclusion from a recently passed amnesty law that they argue does not adequately address their circumstances. The hunger strike commenced on Sunday at the Rodeo I prison, just outside Caracas, following the approval of the law by the Venezuelan Congress. This legislation aims to facilitate reforms and has garnered support from the United States, especially after the ousting of former president Nicolas Maduro earlier this year.

The new amnesty law has raised significant concerns among the political prisoners, many of whom face charges related to military issues. The inmates assert that the law, while a step toward reform, does not encompass all political prisoners and specifically leaves out those with military-related charges which constitute a large portion of their group. Critics have also pointed out that the law may not sufficiently facilitate the release of detained activists, thereby perpetuating the cycle of political repression within the country.

As the hunger strike progresses, it draws attention to the broader context of political unrest in Venezuela, following the recent political shift marked by Maduro's removal. The international community, particularly the United States and human rights organizations, are watching closely, as this situation could have significant implications for future diplomatic relations and the pursuit of justice for political prisoners in Venezuela.