A Palestinian Authority prisoner who went on a hunger strike 66 days ago collapsed during a hearing on his case at the High Court of Justice in Jerusalem on Thursday.

The prisoner, Balal Diab, reportedly lost consciousness during the trial and was escorted out of the courtroom by the prison guards.

Justice Elyakim Rubinstein asked Knesset Member Ahmad Tibi (United Arab List-Ta´al), a gynecologist, to treat the prisoner.

Tibi was initially blocked by guards from the Israel Prison Service´s Nachshon Unit, but was eventually allowed to pass after Justice Rubinstein instructed him to treat the prisoner.

According to Tibi, the prisoner´s heart rate was 48 beats per minute and his body temperature dropped to 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

"He can barely feel his feet and must be evacuated to the hospital," Tibi pleaded with the prison guards.

Diab’s trial was adjourned. Israel Prison Service issued a statement saying that, “medical staff accompanied the prisoner and gave him immediate treatment and determined that the detainee is fully conscious. Additional measures were taken to ensure his safety. MK Tibi spoke with the detainee. Following treatment he returned in an ambulance to the hospital.” (IsraelNationalNews © 2012 05/03/12)