Israel has decided not to release Marwan Barghouti, a prominent Palestinian leader, as part of the prisoner exchange for hostages held by Hamas under the newly agreed Gaza ceasefire deal. The list of prisoners issued by Israel does not include Barghouti, despite Hamas insisting on his release along with other high-profile figures. Israel considers Barghouti a terrorist leader serving multiple life sentences for his involvement in attacks that resulted in casualties.
The ceasefire in Gaza, effective since Friday, mandates Hamas to release about 20 Israeli hostages by Monday, while Israel is set to free around 250 Palestinian prisoners serving sentences, including those detained in Gaza without charge over the past two years. The prisoners to be released have symbolic significance for both Israelis and Palestinians, with differing views on whether they are political prisoners or terrorists.
Most of the listed Israeli prisoners are Hamas and Fatah members arrested during the early 2000s for involvement in attacks against Israeli civilians, settlers, and soldiers. The prisoner release includes individuals convicted of orchestrating suicide bombings and other violent acts. The upcoming releases bring to light the historical context of the Second intifada, a violent Palestinian uprising against the Israeli occupation.
Hamas has long sought Barghouti’s freedom, viewing him as a unifying figure capable of leading Palestinians. Barghouti’s popularity stems from his advocacy for a two-state solution and his resistance against Israeli occupation. Despite being incarcerated for his alleged involvement in attacks, Barghouti remains a significant political figure with potential to succeed Mahmoud Abbas, the current Palestinian Authority president.
Barghouti’s release could pose a challenge to Israel’s political landscape, as his leadership may strengthen Palestinian institutions and advance the Palestinian cause towards statehood. The decision not to release Barghouti reflects Israel’s concerns over his potential to unify Palestinians and challenge the status quo.