Marwan Barghouti Allegedly Beaten by Israeli Guards: Family Claims Assault

Fri Oct 17 2025 00:37:49 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Marwan Barghouti, a prominent Palestinian prisoner serving multiple life sentences, has reportedly been attacked by Israeli prison guards during a transfer. Family members share alarming details about the incident following accounts from released detainees.

The family of Marwan Barghouti, a high-profile Palestinian prisoner known for his political significance, claims he was severely beaten by Israeli prison guards during a prison transfer. Barghouti's son reported that detainees who were recently released provided testimonies about the attack. The Israeli Prison Service has denied these allegations, stating that they conform to legal standards in their operations. The incident raises significant concerns about the treatment of prisoners and the ongoing tensions in the region.

The most prominent Palestinian prisoner, Marwan Barghouti, was reportedly beaten unconscious by Israeli prison guards on September 14, according to his family. The 66-year-old, who is serving life sentences for orchestrating attacks against Israelis, was allegedly assaulted by eight guards while being transferred between Ganot and Megiddo prisons.

The Israel Prison Service has refuted these claims, declaring them as false accusations, asserting their commitment to the well-being of all inmates in their care.

Barghouti's son, Arab, spoke to the BBC and revealed that the family received testimonies from five released detainees who recounted Barghouti's version of the events, expressing horror at the brutality described.

According to the family, Barghouti was handcuffed, placed on the floor, and subjected to kicks and blows focused on his head, chest, and legs, leaving him unconscious for several hours and unable to walk. Arab suspects the absence of surveillance cameras during the transfer allowed the guards to act without fear of exposure.

Currently, Barghouti is serving five life sentences plus 40 years, following his conviction in 2004 for attacks that resulted in civilian casualties. He is regarded as a unifying figure among Palestinians, often seen favorably in public opinion polls, indicating that he would lead against current Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas if an election were held.

Following a recent prisoner exchange deal between Israel and Hamas, Barghouti’s name was notably missing from the list of prominent prisoners released, despite his name being highly sought by Hamas as part of negotiations. He has been in solitary confinement since October 2023.

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who oversees the prison service, denied the assault allegations but revealed he was proud of the tough prison conditions imposed on Barghouti. A separate incident involving Ben Gvir taunting Barghouti, which was recorded and disseminated publicly, further highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding Barghouti's treatment.