In a recent video circulating on social media, Itamar Ben Gvir, Israel's national security minister, was seen confronting Marwan Barghouti, a highly regarded Palestinian figure imprisoned for over two decades. The 13-second clip, which marked Barghouti's first public appearance in years, has drawn condemnation from Palestinian leaders, notably Vice-President Hussein al-Sheikh, who labeled it "psychological, moral and physical terrorism." Ben Gvir's comments about Barghouti serve to highlight ongoing tensions as the Palestinian Authority continues to assert its position amid political instability and conflict.
Far-right Israeli Minister Provokes Palestinian Leader in Controversial Video
Far-right Israeli Minister Provokes Palestinian Leader in Controversial Video
A provocative encounter between Israeli Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Palestinian prisoner Marwan Barghouti has sparked outrage from the Palestinian Authority.
The article text:
New footage shared on social media features Itamar Ben Gvir, the far-right Israeli national security minister, mocking Marwan Barghouti, the most recognized Palestinian prisoner, during a rare interaction while Barghouti remains confined in his cell. The Palestinian Authority was quick to decry the incident, with Vice-President Hussein al-Sheikh characterizing it as "the epitome of psychological, moral and physical terrorism."
The 13-second video is notable not just for Ben Gvir's provocative statements but also for presenting Barghouti, who appears older and frail, publicly for the first time in years. Ben Gvir was captured in the footage declaring, "You will not win. He who messes with the people of Israel... we will wipe him out," while Barghouti, attempting to respond, is cut short as Ben Gvir further commented, "You need to know this, throughout history."
Currently aged 66, Barghouti was sentenced to five life terms plus 40 years after being convicted of orchestrating attacks resulting in the deaths of five civilians. Despite his imprisonment, he remains a prominent political figure among Palestinians. Polls indicate a strong preference for him as a leader, surpassing current Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and leaders from Hamas.
The video first emerged within messaging groups associated with Ben Gvir's supporters before being publicly shared on his X account. In light of criticism from Palestinian officials, Ben Gvir defiantly stated he would continue to make similar remarks without remorse.
Rights organizations advocating for Palestinian prisoners reported that Barghouti was placed in solitary confinement following the Hamas-led attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023. Past allegations of mistreatment include claims that prison guards inflicted brutal assaults against him, which the Israeli prison service has consistently denied.
As the video continues to receive backlash, Abdullah al-Zaghari, head of the Palestinian Prisoners' Club, accused Israel of attempting to eliminate and silence Barghouti and other imprisoned leaders. Meanwhile, speculation persists that Hamas could seek Barghouti's release as part of negotiations regarding hostages. Despite this, sources indicate that Israel is unlikely to consider his release.
Barghouti's wife, Fadwa, suggested that supporters focus on a specific moment in the video that showcases his resilience. Many Palestinians view him as a potential unifier capable of bridging political divides and fostering dialogue for peace with Israel.
New footage shared on social media features Itamar Ben Gvir, the far-right Israeli national security minister, mocking Marwan Barghouti, the most recognized Palestinian prisoner, during a rare interaction while Barghouti remains confined in his cell. The Palestinian Authority was quick to decry the incident, with Vice-President Hussein al-Sheikh characterizing it as "the epitome of psychological, moral and physical terrorism."
The 13-second video is notable not just for Ben Gvir's provocative statements but also for presenting Barghouti, who appears older and frail, publicly for the first time in years. Ben Gvir was captured in the footage declaring, "You will not win. He who messes with the people of Israel... we will wipe him out," while Barghouti, attempting to respond, is cut short as Ben Gvir further commented, "You need to know this, throughout history."
Currently aged 66, Barghouti was sentenced to five life terms plus 40 years after being convicted of orchestrating attacks resulting in the deaths of five civilians. Despite his imprisonment, he remains a prominent political figure among Palestinians. Polls indicate a strong preference for him as a leader, surpassing current Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and leaders from Hamas.
The video first emerged within messaging groups associated with Ben Gvir's supporters before being publicly shared on his X account. In light of criticism from Palestinian officials, Ben Gvir defiantly stated he would continue to make similar remarks without remorse.
Rights organizations advocating for Palestinian prisoners reported that Barghouti was placed in solitary confinement following the Hamas-led attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023. Past allegations of mistreatment include claims that prison guards inflicted brutal assaults against him, which the Israeli prison service has consistently denied.
As the video continues to receive backlash, Abdullah al-Zaghari, head of the Palestinian Prisoners' Club, accused Israel of attempting to eliminate and silence Barghouti and other imprisoned leaders. Meanwhile, speculation persists that Hamas could seek Barghouti's release as part of negotiations regarding hostages. Despite this, sources indicate that Israel is unlikely to consider his release.
Barghouti's wife, Fadwa, suggested that supporters focus on a specific moment in the video that showcases his resilience. Many Palestinians view him as a potential unifier capable of bridging political divides and fostering dialogue for peace with Israel.
