Hamas demands Israel release Marwan Barghouti, a man some Palestinians see as their Nelson Mandela

[Eugene]

Source: Associated Press

Hamas demands Israel release Marwan Barghouti, a man some Palestinians see as their Nelson Mandela

BY JULIA FRANKEL
Updated 3:56 PM EST, February 3, 2024

JERUSALEM (AP) — He’s viewed by some Palestinians as their Nelson Mandela, and he’s a prime candidate to become their president in the future. He’s also the highest-profile prisoner held by Israel.

Now Marwan Barghouti’s freedom is at stake in cease-fire negotiations between Hamas and Israel. Hamas leaders demanded Friday that Israel release Barghouti, a leader of the militant group’s main political rival, as part of any deal to end the fighting in Gaza.

The demand brings new attention to Barghouti, who plays a central role in Palestinian politics even after spending more than two decades behind bars. His release could lay the groundwork for his eventual election to national office.

Hamas’ gambit to free him appears to be an attempt to rally public support for the militant group as well as a recognition of his status as a uniquely unifying Palestinian figure.

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Read more: https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-marwan-barghouti-ceasefire-deal-fb3152db0cc4d37683a2019017e34bc1

[jimfields33]

1. A person that important should be required

To have all Israeli prisoners and hostages released. Your move hamas.

[Raven123]

2. The GOP and Hamas have similar negotiating styles

Don’t negotiate. Just make extreme demands

[Mountainguy]

3. Of course Palestinians think a high peofile terrorist

Should be their next President. He's even been calling for the third intifada from prison.