For the first time in years, Marwan Barghouti, one of the most famous Palestinian prisoners in Israel, was seen in a video posted by Israel’s far-right national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir. The video shows Ben-Gvir berating Barghouti in his prison cell, making strong statements about Israel’s stance against those who threaten its citizens.
The exact timing of the video is unclear, but it has gained significant traction across Israel and the occupied West Bank. In the brief 13-second clip, the 66-year-old Barghouti appears diminished, with a pale complexion and physically altered appearance. His gaunt figure is a stark contrast to the robust politician he once was, a prominent figure tipped to lead the Palestinian Authority.
Barghouti is currently serving five consecutive life sentences after being convicted in 2002 for orchestrating attacks on civilians during the Second Intifada. The comments made by Ben-Gvir, which include threats against those who harm Israeli citizens, add to the growing tensions surrounding the treatment of Palestinian prisoners.
Khader Shkirat, one of Barghouti’s lawyers, expressed shock at his client’s altered appearance. “When I received the video, really I didn’t recognize Marwan. He lost a lot of weight and even his face is not what we were used to seeing,” Shkirat stated, noting he had to confirm Barghouti’s identity through his wife due to his drastic change.
The situation surrounding Palestinian detainees has escalated dramatically following the deadly attacks by Hamas on October 7, 2023. As of August 2025, approximately 10,700 Palestinians are held in Israeli custody, a significant increase from before this escalation. This figure includes many individuals detained without trial or charges, as reported by the Israel Prison Service to the human rights organization Hamoked. Shkirat drew a parallel between the treatment of prisoners and the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating, “The starvation of the prisoners is the same as they are imposing on Gaza.”
Moreover, in the last 22 months, 76 Palestinians have died while in Israeli custody, according to various Palestinian prisoner organizations. Barghouti’s imprisonment is often characterized as politically motivated by many Palestinians, and even in recent discussions around prisoner exchanges, Israel has consistently refused to consider his release.
Amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel, officials have indicated that Barghouti remains a key figure for Palestinian demands. They believe he is one of the most sought-after prisoners for exchanges, highlighting his continuing influence within Palestinian society.
Shkirat expressed concerns about Ben-Gvir’s comments, viewing them as a direct threat to Barghouti. He mentioned that appeals have been made to international players, including the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt, to ensure Barghouti’s protection from potential assassination while in Israeli detention. Despite the lack of previous attempts to secure Barghouti’s release, Shkirat remains hopeful, stating, “Marwan will be free and leading his people, and I hope Ben-Gvir will be in prison.”
Ben-Gvir is a controversial figure within Israeli politics, known for his provocative actions and statements. He has been convicted on multiple charges, including supporting a terrorist organization, yet continues to attract public attention and promote an anti-Arab agenda through his political party, Jewish Power (Otzma Yehudit).
Earlier this August, he sparked outrage by reciting a Jewish prayer at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, a site significant to both Jews and Muslims. This act, coupled with his push for Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, positions him as a polarizing leader in the ongoing conflict. His calls for relocating Palestinians to facilitate Jewish settlements further accentuate the volatile atmosphere in the region.
As discussions regarding the war against Hamas continue, Ben-Gvir is expected to maintain a hardline stance, focusing on settling Gaza and asserting Israeli dominance in the territory. Ayatollah Batrawy contributed to the reporting in this complex and rapidly evolving situation.
image source from：npr
