A growing wave of international support is calling for the release of Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti, who has been imprisoned in Israel since 2002. Over 200 prominent figures—including Nobel laureate Annie Ernaux, actors Javier Bardem and Benedict Cumberbatch, directors Yorgos Lanthimos and Justine Triet, musicians Sting and Brian Eno, and former footballers Eric Cantona and Gary Lineker—signed an open letter demanding his freedom.
Barghouti, 66, a former Fatah member, advocates for a political resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and has been described by supporters as the “Palestinian Mandela” for his long imprisonment and anti-corruption stance. The letter cites concerns over his continued detention, alleged mistreatment, and denial of legal rights in prison, urging the United Nations and world governments to intervene.
Barghouti was sentenced to five life terms by an Israeli court for his involvement in deadly attacks during the Second Intifada (2000–2005). Israel has consistently refused his release during prisoner exchanges. His family launched the “Free Marwan” campaign, which has drawn international attention.
The call for Barghouti’s release comes amid renewed violence in Gaza. Recent Israeli airstrikes in the southern Palestinian enclave killed five people, including two children, while an Israeli drone strike killed journalist Mahmoud Wadi. Both sides accuse each other of violating a truce established in October 2023, which has seen at least 356 Palestinians killed and over 900 injured since its implementation.
The open letter highlights Barghouti’s symbolic role and urges a resolution to the conflict, reinforcing global advocacy for Palestinian prisoners’ rights.
