Marwan Bargudhi and a two-state solution
Marwan Barghouti is a prominent Palestinian leader, currently serving five life sentences in an Israeli prison for his role in deadly terror attacks. He is a senior member of the Fatah political party who advocates for a two-state solution and is a popular choice among many Palestinians to potentially lead a future state. However, his release is highly unlikely due to his security convictions.
Conviction and imprisonment
- Arrest and conviction: Barghouti was arrested by Israeli forces in 2002 during the Second Intifada. In 2004, he was convicted of involvement in attacks that killed five Israelis and was sentenced to five life terms plus 40 years. He has maintained his innocence on the murder charges.
- Ongoing imprisonment: Barghouti has remained politically active while in prison and has been put in solitary confinement following the October 7, 2023, attacks. His release has been a demand in hostage exchange negotiations, but Israel has consistently rejected the idea.
Two-state solution advocacy
- Shift from violence to diplomacy: After his imprisonment, Barghouti is reported to have renounced violence and adopted a position favoring a two-state solution.
- 2006 Prisoners’ Document: He co-authored the 2006 Palestinian Prisoners’ Document, which called for a unified Palestinian political approach toward a two-state solution. It was notable for securing support from rival factions, including Hamas.
- Broad support: Because of his background and ability to garner support across Palestinian factions, some analysts view Barghouti as a key figure for reviving the two-state solution and unifying the Palestinian people.
Potential leadership in Gaza
- Popularity: Despite being jailed for over two decades, Barghouti remains one of the most popular and respected Palestinian leaders.
- Public support: A 2025 poll by the Palestinian Centre for Policy and Survey Research found that 50% of Palestinians would choose Barghouti for president, making him a clear favorite. This popularity is a primary reason he is discussed as a possible future leader.
- Unlikely scenario: While he is a popular choice for leadership, his potential to head the Gazan people if freed is a hypothetical scenario. His continued imprisonment makes his release highly unlikely, and Hamas—which has sought his release—does not support the two-state solution he advocates for. Any post-war leadership structure for Gaza is highly uncertain.
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