In brief
Marwan Barghouti, one of the most prominent Palestinian prisoners, was reportedly attacked by Israeli guards while being transferred between prisons. The 66-year-old prisoner was beaten unconscious, according to his family, who highlighted that there were no surveillance cameras to verify the incident. The alleged assault has drawn scrutiny and condemnation from various Palestinian factions and human rights advocates, as Barghouti remains a significant figure in Palestinian politics.
The most prominent Palestinian prisoner, Marwan Barghouti, was beaten unconscious by Israeli prison guards on September 14, his family claims.
The 66-year-old, serving life for planning deadly attacks against Israelis, was allegedly assaulted by eight guards while being transferred between Ganot and Megiddo prisons.
The Israel Prison Service refutes these claims, stating, These are false claims (fake). The Israel Prison Service operates in accordance with the law, while ensuring the safety and health of all inmates.
Barghouti's son, Arab, reported that five released detainees corroborated his father's account of the event, expressing horror at the allegations.
According to reports, Barghouti was handcuffed and subjected to kicks and beatings, leading to severe injuries including loss of consciousness and significant bleeding.
Arab speculated that the lack of surveillance cameras in the transport area allowed the incident to occur unnoticed. Barghouti, who was convicted in 2004 for his involvement in attacks that resulted in civilian deaths, is viewed as a unifying figure among Palestinians.
His case has gained international attention, particularly as Barghouti's name surfaced in prisoner negotiations between Hamas and Israel, though the Israeli government denied including him in any deal.
Barghouti's ongoing solitary confinement and the government's treatment of him have raised human rights concerns, drawing criticism and condemnation from various factions and international observers.
