The Western Saharan human rights activist Aminatou Haidar is risking death as she continues a hunger strike over Morocco’s refusal to allow her to return to her desert homeland. Known as the “Sahrawi Gandhi,” Haidar has been on a hunger strike for more than three weeks since Moroccan officials denied her entry into Western Sahara. Morocco has demanded Haidar recognize Moroccan sovereignty over her homeland and apologize to the king. Haidar’s doctor says she may only have days to live if her hunger strike continues. On Friday, Spain and Morocco reached a deal for Haidar’s return, but Moroccan officials reneged shortly before her plane was due to leave. Shortly before she was scheduled to depart, Haidar thanked a cheering crowd for their support.

Aminatou Haidar: “I thank all the free and noble people who gave me support in Guacimeta, Lanzarote airport.”

The Spanish government has reportedly backed off its pressure on the Moroccan government and is now preparing to force-feed Haidar. Haidar’s supporters are calling on the Spanish government to put her on a commercial flight to the Western Sahara and adopt a tougher stance against the Moroccan government. (Related: Democracy Now! coverage of Aminatou Haidar’s case.)