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The Day · Monday 8 December 2025

Filed 01:19 · Palestine time (UTC+2) · World

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Palestinian Rights Group Accuses Israel of Plotting to Assassinate Barghouti

A Palestinian rights group has issued a warning, claiming that Israel is planning to assassinate jailed Palestinian leader Barghouti. The accusation adds to growing concerns regarding the treatment of Palestinian detainees and the escalating threats they face inside Israeli prisons.

BETHLEHEM, WEST BANK – DECEMBER 24: A Palestinian man pass the graffiti showing Marwan Barghouti, a Palestinian imprisoned politician on December 24, 2023 in Bethlehem, West Bank. Last month, Christian Palestinian leaders here called off public Christmas celebrations, citing the effects of the ongoing war in Gaza. Regarded by Christians as the birthplace of Jesus, Bethlehem is usually bustling with foreign tourists this time of year, with streets full of holiday decoration and vendors selling ornaments and festive figurines. Israel’s war against Hamas that was sparked by the Oct. 7 attacks has also made life more volatile in the West Bank. Israeli forces here have stepped up raids on alleged militants, police have clashed with protesters, and there has been a rise in violent attacks on Palestinians by Israeli settlers. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

A Palestinian rights group has issued a stark warning, accusing Israel of plotting to assassinate jailed Palestinian leader Barghouti. The allegation comes amid heightened concerns over the safety of Palestinian prisoners held by Israeli authorities.

The rights group did not provide further details, but emphasized what it described as credible threats to Barghouti’s life reportedly orchestrated by Israeli authorities. The group stated that such a move would constitute a severe escalation and could provoke widespread reaction across Palestinian territories and beyond.

Barghouti, widely recognized as a symbolic figure among Palestinians, remains incarcerated in an Israeli prison. Over recent years, his case has remained central to discussions around Palestinian prisoners and the broader struggle against the Israeli occupation.

In its statement, the rights group underscored the importance of international intervention to prevent what it alleges is a planned assassination. The group called on human rights organizations and global institutions to act swiftly in order to protect Barghouti’s life and ensure the safety of all Palestinian detainees.

Meanwhile, the group condemned what it described as systemic violations by Israeli authorities within the prison system. It listed threats, neglect, and targeted measures as part of what it views as a policy aimed at breaking the spirit of imprisoned Palestinian leaders.

From its side, the rights group stressed that any harm to Barghouti would be perceived not only as an attack on an individual but as an assault on the collective Palestinian resistance movement. It warned that such an act would carry severe consequences and deepen existing tensions.

The group reiterated its stance that prisoner safety must be a central concern for international observers, especially given recent developments. It urged for increased pressure on Israel to end what it described as punitive and dangerous practices against Palestinian detainees.

The identity of the group issuing the statement was not specified further in the report. Nevertheless, its message aligned with long-standing accusations by Palestinian advocacy groups that Israel systematically targets figures of resistance behind bars.

In addition, the group called for broad awareness campaigns to highlight the conditions inside Israeli prisons. It plans to escalate efforts to garner global attention for Barghouti’s situation, with appeals to human rights councils and legal bodies.

This warning has stirred reactions within Palestinian society, where concern over the fate of detainees remains high. Observers say it fits within a larger context of fear that political prisoners could be subjected to extreme measures.

Barghouti remains a central figure in that narrative. Despite decades of incarceration, he continues to symbolize steadfastness and resistance, often being referenced in public discourse and protest movements across Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem.

The rights group did not suggest how or when the alleged plot might be carried out but reiterated its urgent appeal for action aimed at preventing irreversible harm. It concluded the statement with a call for solidarity and resistance, emphasizing that the voice of the prisoners must not be silenced.

8 Dec, 01:19

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