An international campaign calling for the release of Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti is gaining momentum, with over 200 high-profile figures, including Margaret Atwood and Javier Bardem, publicly supporting his cause. Barghouti, widely regarded as Palestine’s Nelson Mandela, has been imprisoned in Israel since 2002 and subjected to repeated abuse and legal rights violations.

“Free Marwan” Campaign Gains Global Attention

The campaign was launched earlier this week by Barghouti’s family and emphasizes the urgent humanitarian and legal concerns surrounding his detention. In an open letter released Wednesday, supporters called on the United Nations and national governments worldwide to take action, expressing “grave concern at the continuing imprisonment, violent mistreatment, and denial of legal rights” of Barghouti.

The initiative includes events across multiple countries, including the United Kingdom and France, aimed at raising awareness of his treatment and pressuring international actors to intervene.

Barghouti: Palestinian Leader and Unifying Figure

Barghouti, a senior leader of Fatah, has served five life sentences in Israeli prisons for alleged involvement in attacks during the Second Intifada (2000–2005). Despite his incarceration, he remains a central figure in Palestinian politics, widely viewed as a potential unifier of the Palestinian factions and a key player in the eventual creation of a Palestinian state.

Earlier this year, reports emerged of Barghouti being taunted by Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir while in Ganot Prison, highlighting ongoing abuse and deteriorating health. His son revealed in October that Barghouti suffered four broken ribs and head injuries during a prison transfer in September, prompting his family to fear for his life.

Widespread Public Support

Barghouti enjoys overwhelming support among Palestinians. A recent People’s Company for Polls and Survey Research (PCPSR) survey found that he would win decisively in any Palestinian Authority (PA) elections, with Hamas trailing second and PA President Mahmoud Abbas in third. Despite promises of legislative and presidential elections under the UN-endorsed 20-point plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, Palestinians remain skeptical, with 60% doubting elections will occur.

International Advocacy and Human Rights Concerns

The “Free Marwan” campaign frames Barghouti’s imprisonment as a human rights issue, highlighting ongoing mistreatment and the denial of legal protections in Israeli custody. Cultural and political figures emphasize that Barghouti’s release would be a significant step toward justice for Palestinians and could help facilitate peace negotiations in the region.

As the campaign gains traction, global attention is focusing on the intersection of Palestinian political leadership, human rights, and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with Barghouti positioned as both a symbolic and practical figure for Palestinian unity.