Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti has been subjected to repeated physical abuse while in Israeli detention, according to a campaign advocating for prisoners’ rights.
Barghouti, a prominent figure in Palestinian politics who has been imprisoned by Israel since 2002, was reportedly assaulted multiple times by prison guards, the campaign said, citing testimonies from detainees. The claims have not been independently verified, and Israeli authorities have not publicly responded to the allegations.
Supporters say the reported abuse highlights broader concerns over the treatment of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody, an issue that has drawn criticism from human rights organizations in recent years.
Barghouti is widely regarded by many Palestinians as a key political figure and potential unifying leader. His continued detention and reported treatment have made him a symbolic figure in the Palestinian cause.
The allegations come amid heightened tensions linked to the Gaza war, with increased scrutiny on Israel’s detention policies and conditions for Palestinian prisoners.
The reports also come amid longstanding allegations over the treatment of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody, with human rights groups repeatedly raising concerns about abuse, torture and rape. With Israel recently moving forward with plans to apply the death penalty in certain cases, concerns over detainee rights have intensified.
