The interaction has raised tensions, sparking outrage from the Palestinian Authority and highlighting ongoing disputes over leadership and prisoner rights.
Far-Right Minister Provokes Palestinian Leader in Disturbing Video Encounter
Far-Right Minister Provokes Palestinian Leader in Disturbing Video Encounter
Recent footage reveals Itamar Ben Gvir's confrontation with imprisoned Palestinian figure Marwan Barghouti, drawing widespread condemnation.
In a controversial exchange, far-right Israeli minister Itamar Ben Gvir was seen taunting Marwan Barghouti, a prominent Palestinian prisoner, in a recently released video. The brief clip, which has stirred significant backlash, shows Ben Gvir, Israel's national security minister, confronting Barghouti, who has been imprisoned for over two decades. As Barghouti attempted to respond, Ben Gvir stated, “You will not win. He who messes with the people of Israel… we will wipe him out,” asserting firmly his stance against the Palestinian leader's legacy.
The Palestinian Authority swiftly condemned the video, denouncing it as a blatant act of "psychological, moral and physical terrorism," according to Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh. The video marks the first time Barghouti has been caught on camera in years, appearing visibly frail and worn. Convicted of orchestrating deadly attacks that resulted in the deaths of five Israeli civilians, the 66-year-old currently serves five life sentences plus an additional 40 years.
While Ben Gvir claimed his remarks would not be retracted despite backlash from Palestinian officials, the clip has ignited further scrutiny regarding Israel's treatment of political prisoners. Barghouti is seen by many Palestinians as a unified figure capable of bridging divides among various factions in the face of ongoing conflict. His enduring popularity is evident, as polls indicate he would likely fare well against current leadership in potential elections.
The Palestinian Prisoners’ Club has noted Barghouti's solitary confinement following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, emphasizing concerns regarding his treatment, which includes allegations of assault by prison guards—claims that the Israeli prison authority denies. His wife, Fadwa, has encouraged supporters to focus on the parts of the footage that reflect Barghouti's resilience in this troubling situation.
This exchange between Ben Gvir and Barghouti is emblematic of the entrenched tensions in Israeli-Palestinian relations amid calls for action and negotiations surrounding key issues of leadership and prisoners.
The Palestinian Authority swiftly condemned the video, denouncing it as a blatant act of "psychological, moral and physical terrorism," according to Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh. The video marks the first time Barghouti has been caught on camera in years, appearing visibly frail and worn. Convicted of orchestrating deadly attacks that resulted in the deaths of five Israeli civilians, the 66-year-old currently serves five life sentences plus an additional 40 years.
While Ben Gvir claimed his remarks would not be retracted despite backlash from Palestinian officials, the clip has ignited further scrutiny regarding Israel's treatment of political prisoners. Barghouti is seen by many Palestinians as a unified figure capable of bridging divides among various factions in the face of ongoing conflict. His enduring popularity is evident, as polls indicate he would likely fare well against current leadership in potential elections.
The Palestinian Prisoners’ Club has noted Barghouti's solitary confinement following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, emphasizing concerns regarding his treatment, which includes allegations of assault by prison guards—claims that the Israeli prison authority denies. His wife, Fadwa, has encouraged supporters to focus on the parts of the footage that reflect Barghouti's resilience in this troubling situation.
This exchange between Ben Gvir and Barghouti is emblematic of the entrenched tensions in Israeli-Palestinian relations amid calls for action and negotiations surrounding key issues of leadership and prisoners.
