An international coalition of prominent cultural figures has launched a significant appeal for the immediate release of Marwan Barghouti, the incarcerated Palestinian political leader often compared to Nelson Mandela. The campaign, supported by Nobel laureate Annie Ernaux, actors Benedict Cumberbatch, Ian McKellen, and Brian Cox, chef Delia Smith, and musician Brian Eno, contends that Barghouti’s imprisonment represents a critical obstacle to peace in the region.
Barghouti, captured by Israeli forces in 2002 and subsequently sentenced to five life terms, has emerged as the most popular political figure in Palestinian polling despite his decades-long incarceration. The signatories’ letter highlights alleged ‘violent mistreatment and denial of legal rights’ during his imprisonment, drawing parallels to the international campaign that ultimately secured Nelson Mandela’s freedom.
The controversy surrounding Barghouti’s 2004 trial remains central to the appeal. Author and lawyer Selma Dabbagh characterized the judicial process as ‘a sham,’ noting that the Inter-Parliamentary Union had previously documented substantial flaws in the proceedings. Barghouti himself refused to mount a defense, rejecting Israel’s jurisdiction over West Bank Palestinians.
Recent developments have intensified concerns regarding Barghouti’s treatment. Reports indicate severe restrictions on family and legal visits, with Palestinian officials alleging systematic ‘isolation, torture and attempts to coerce, humiliate and beat him.’ A disturbing 13-second video from August 2025 showed Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir threatening Barghouti in his cell—the first public footage of the leader in nearly ten years.
The campaign emerges amid revelations that Barghouti’s name was reportedly removed from prisoner exchange lists during recent Gaza ceasefire negotiations. Notably, some Israeli security figures, including former Shin Bet leaders, have joined calls for his release, suggesting his freedom could potentially alter the political landscape.
Brian Eno framed the cultural campaign as analogous to anti-apartheid efforts, stating: ‘Just as global solidarity helped free Nelson Mandela, we all have the power to accelerate the day that Marwan Barghouti walks free. His release would mark a turning point in this long struggle.’