Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu on Monday discussed methods of dealing with a group of Arab security prisoners who were on a hunger strike.

Some 290 terrorists were participating in the hunger strike. Netanyahu is seeking medical opinions on how to deal with the strike, and is prepared to issue orders forcing them to eat.

Netanyahu met with top advisers and members of the Security Cabinet to discuss the matter. Of the 290 terrorist on a hunger strike, about 70 have been hospitalized.

During the discussion, Netanyahu told attendees that he hoped for quick passage of a bill that would allow Israeli officials to issue orders to feed the terrorists. Attending the meeting were Public Security Minister Yitzchak Aharonovich, and the heads of the prison system. Netanyahu asked for their help in getting the bill passed.

A report on Channel 2 said that the heads of Israel’s doctors’ associations had ordered physicians not to cooperate on passing the law or in carrying it out if it passed. In response, Netanyahu said that he was sure he could find doctors who would be interested in helping out.

The striking prisoners are demanding immediate release or a trial. Most of them are being held in administrative detention, because they are serious security threats.

While terrorists have staged similar strikes in the past, this is the first time so many have been hospitalized at the same time. The terrorists are refusing to accept medical care or assistance.