A Bold Move: Israeli Minister Visits Jailed Palestinian Figure
In a surprising turn of events, Israel's far-right national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, visited Marwan Barghouti, a prominent Palestinian leader currently serving time in prison.
This visit came just after another high-ranking Israeli official made a bold statement about the future of a Palestinian state.
A Stern Message
Ben-Gvir shared a video of his encounter with Barghouti, who has been imprisoned for over 20 years. In the video, Ben-Gvir delivered a stern message:
"You will not win."
He also warned that anyone posing a threat to Israel would face elimination.
Context and Reactions
The visit took place earlier this week but gained public attention following comments by ultra-nationalist Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Smotrich announced plans to start construction on a settlement that would effectively cut off East Jerusalem from the rest of the West Bank.
This move has been seen as a direct challenge to the idea of a Palestinian state, with Smotrich's office stating that it would "bury" the notion.
Barghouti's Condition
In the video, Barghouti appeared thin and weak. Ben-Gvir's message was clear: anyone who harms Israelis would be dealt with harshly. The Israeli prime minister's office and Ben-Gvir's spokesman did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Palestinian Authority's Response
The Palestinian Authority condemned Ben-Gvir's actions and comments, calling them a "direct threat" to Barghouti. Barghouti, a senior member of the Fatah movement, has been in solitary confinement for two years. His wife expressed concern on Facebook, noting that Barghouti continues to be targeted even in prison.
Background on Barghouti
Barghouti was sentenced in 2004 to multiple life sentences and 40 years in jail for his alleged role in attacks during the second Palestinian Intifada. He has consistently denied these charges. Supporters see him as a potential unifying figure for Palestinians and a possible successor to the current president, Mahmoud Abbas. A recent poll showed Barghouti leading in a hypothetical presidential race.
The Future of the Two-State Solution
The prospect of a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict seems increasingly unlikely under the current far-right Israeli government. The spread of Jewish settlements, deemed illegal by the United Nations, continues to undermine the West Bank leadership's credibility among Palestinians.