A federal judge has mandated medical intervention for Rahmanullah Lakanwal, accused of a deadly shooting in Washington, D.C., due to his refusal to eat or drink. This decision, ordered by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, aims to preserve his life as he awaits trial.

The court order specifies that Lakanwal must be force-fed and receive medical care until he resumes taking adequate food and liquid intake, and medical treatment is no longer necessary to prevent a life-threatening situation. This order stays in effect until October 28.

Last month, Justice Department filings revealed that Lakanwal was moved to a hospital on July 9 as an urgent measure after beginning a hunger strike in June. The government intervened to ensure his survival pending his trial.

Accused of killing Army SPC Sarah Beckstrom and injuring Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, Lakanwal is facing numerous federal charges. He also attempted to kill two other service members who managed to subdue him at the attack scene.

The charges against him include murder and discharge of a firearm causing death during a violent crime, both of which could lead to the death penalty. He is charged under D.C. law with first-degree murder, assault, and illegal gun possession.

Lakanwal, who entered the U.S. under humanitarian parole from Afghanistan in 2021, has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The Justice Department is deliberating on pursuing the death penalty in this case.

The motivation behind Lakanwal’s refusal to accept food and medical care remains undetermined, as his legal team has yet to comment.