Far-Right Israeli Minister Provokes Palestinian Prisoner in Controversial Video

The latest confrontation documented in a video showcases the tumultuous relationship between Israeli officials and Palestinian leaders, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region.

A recent video posted on social media by far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has reignited tensions, as it depicts him taunting Marwan Barghouti, the most recognized Palestinian prisoner. The clip, which lasts just 13 seconds, is significant as it marks the first public sighting of Barghouti in years. He appears frail and aged in the footage.

Ben Gvir can be heard declaring to Barghouti, “You will not win. He who messes with the people of Israel, he who will murder our children, he who will murder our women, we will wipe him out." As Barghouti attempts to respond, Ben Gvir insists, “You need to know this, throughout history.” This incident has elicited strong reactions, with Palestinian Authority Vice-President Hussein al-Sheikh condemning the action as “the epitome of psychological, moral and physical terrorism.”

Marwan Barghouti was sentenced to five life terms and an additional 40 years in prison over 20 years ago, following his involvement in attacks that resulted in civilian casualties during the Second Palestinian Intifada. Despite his imprisonment, polls show that Barghouti remains the most popular Palestinian political figure, preferred over current President Mahmoud Abbas and Hamas leaders.

Ben Gvir originally shared the video in messaging groups for his supporters before making it public on his X account. He remarked that he has noted displeasure from "all sorts of senior officials" in the Palestinian Authority (PA) and stated his intent to continue speaking out without apology.

Human rights organizations for Palestinian prisoners report that Barghouti has been in solitary confinement since the escalated violence stemming from Hamas-led attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. Prior allegations included brutal treatment from prison guards, which the Israeli prison service has denied.

In response to the provocative video, Abdullah al-Zaghari, head of the Palestinian Prisoners' Club, accused Israel of attempting to erase Barghouti and other imprisoned Palestinian leaders. Barghouti's release has been hinted at in discussions regarding a possible exchange deal for hostages held by Hamas, although it remains unlikely that Israel would agree to his release.

During the video encounter, Barghouti, who speaks Hebrew fluently, is observed trying to respond to Ben Gvir, but the clip ends abruptly. Following the release, his wife, Fadwa, encouraged supporters to focus on one portion of the footage she felt showcased her husband's resilience. Many Palestinians regard Barghouti as the potential leader capable of uniting various factions and negotiating a peaceful resolution with Israel.