London: More than 20 actors who have appeared in Marvel universe films and TV series have joined an international campaign calling for the release of Palestinian politician Marwan Barghouti, who has been held by Israel and, according to the campaign, kept in solitary confinement since 2023.
According to Anadolu Agency, the campaign, known as "Free Marwan Now," was launched by Barghouti's family and supporters and has attracted the backing of more than 200 figures from film, music, literature, and other cultural fields. The campaign expressed grave concern about Barghouti's imprisonment, alleged mistreatment, and denial of legal rights. It called upon the United Nations and world governments to actively seek his release from Israeli prison.
Among the signatories are actors with prominent Marvel contributions, including Ian McKellen, Rebecca Hall, Riz Ahmed, Jason Flemyng, Elliot Page, Hugo Weaving, Zawe Ashton, Emma Corrin, May Calamawy, Brian Cox, Dan Stevens, Rob Delaney, and Kingsley Ben-Adir. The campaign also includes Marvel Cinematic Universe stars Mark Ruffalo, Benedict Cumberbatch, Don Cheadle, Cate Blanchett, Tilda Swinton, Tatiana Maslany, and Daniel Bruhl.
Marwan Barghouti, born on June 6, 1958, in the village of Kobar in the West Bank, joined the Fatah movement at 15. He has been arrested multiple times by Israel, initially in 1976. During the First Intifada, he became a prominent figure and was deported to Jordan, returning to the West Bank in 1994 under the Oslo Accords.
In 1996, Barghouti was elected to the Palestinian Legislative Council and rose within Fatah, becoming the movement's secretary-general. In 2002, Israeli forces arrested him, and he was convicted on charges including murder and attempted murder, receiving five life terms and an additional 40 years in prison. The sentence was linked to attacks during the Second Intifada.
Barghouti studied at Birzeit University, earning degrees in history, political science, and international relations. He completed a doctorate while in prison and authored several books.
In February 2024, Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir moved Barghouti from Ofer Military Prison to Ramon Prison, placing him in solitary confinement due to alleged intelligence about plans for an uprising. This decision heightened Palestinian concerns for Barghouti's safety.
The current campaign aims to secure Barghouti's release and urges international intervention on his behalf.