The family of Marwan Barghouti, a well-known Palestinian prisoner, is urging President Trump to advocate for his release from an Israeli prison. This appeal follows Trump’s comments about the need for new leadership in Gaza.
Barghouti, aged 66, has not been released despite being a prominent figure among the 250 prisoners freed under a US-negotiated ceasefire deal with Hamas on September 29.
“Mr. President, your true partner is waiting for you,” the family expressed in a letter to Trump, as reported. They believe Barghouti can assist in achieving a lasting peace in the region.
They added, “For the sake of freedom for the Palestinian people and peace for future generations, please help us release Marwan Barghouti.”
Convicted for a 2004 terrorist attack that resulted in five deaths, Barghouti is currently serving multiple life sentences.
As the US considers the leadership dynamics in postwar Gaza, Trump hinted last week that he might push Israel to consider Barghouti’s release. He revealed that he had recently talked about this matter with his aides.
“I was literally faced with that question about 15 minutes before you called,” Trump remarked during a phone interview on October 23 when asked about Barghouti, stating, “That was my question today. So I’m going to make a decision.”
He noted that the Palestinians lack effective leadership, saying, “They don’t have a leader right now.” He added that potential leaders are often targeted, making the role quite dangerous.
Prior to his conviction, Barghouti was a member of the Palestinian parliament in the West Bank and led a faction of the Fatah party, which was involved in attacks during the Second Intifada.
While Israel regards Barghouti as a terrorist, many Palestinians view him as a key unifying force in their politics, advocating for a two-state solution and seen as a possible successor to Mahmoud Abbas, the President of the Palestinian Authority.
“No one can unite Palestinians like him,” Barghouti’s brother, Mokbel, stated.
