Israel’s national security minister Itamar Ben Gvir has released a short video showing his visit to high-profile Palestinian prisoner Marwan Barghouti at a high-security facility in southern Israel.
The footage, lasting 13 seconds, shows Ben Gvir speaking to Barghouti in a confrontational manner before cutting him off mid-sentence.
Barghouti, 66, is serving five life sentences following his 2002 conviction for involvement in attacks that killed five Israeli civilians.
He has spent much of his recent imprisonment in solitary confinement, including since October 7, according to his family and Palestinian prisoner groups.
The video shows him looking noticeably thin and frail.
Barghouti is rarely seen in public, but remains a key political figure in Palestinian society. Opinion polls indicate he is one of the most popular leaders among Palestinians and is viewed by many as a potential successor to current Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.
The video has triggered strong reactions from Palestinian officials, who accuse Ben Gvir of targeting prisoners with threats and humiliation.
Barghouti’s relatives say his health has deteriorated due to poor treatment and lack of adequate food.
Palestinian officials have warned that such incidents could escalate tensions further.
Ben Gvir, known for provocative actions and previous convictions for anti-Arab incitement, has not explained the reason for posting the video. Calls for Barghouti’s release have been made in the past, including during ceasefire talks, but Israel has consistently rejected them.