A video circulating widely on Friday shows Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir berating prominent Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti inside a prison, vowing that Israel will confront and “wipe out” anyone acting against the country.
Barghouti, in his mid-60s, is serving five life sentences over his role in attacks during the Palestinian uprising, or intifada, in the early 2000s. Polls have consistently ranked him as the most popular Palestinian leader, and he has rarely been seen since his arrest more than two decades ago.
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It was unclear when the footage was recorded. In it, Ben-Gvir, known for provocative encounters with Palestinians, tells Barghouti he “will not win.” He repeated the remarks in a post on X sharing the video. His spokesman confirmed the visit and its authenticity, denying any threat was made.
Barghouti’s wife, Fadwa, said in a Facebook post that her husband appeared frail but remained connected to the Palestinian people. Israeli authorities say Palestinian inmates are held under the bare minimum conditions allowed by law.