Marvel actors join campaign calling for release of Palestinian terrorist Marwan Barghouti

A campaign calling for the release of convicted Palestinian terrorist Marwan Barghouti has gained support from over 20 actors who have appeared in Marvel films. The "Freedom for Marwan" campaign, publicized via an Instagram post by the group freemarwannow, includes prominent actors such as Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange), Mark Ruffalo (Hulk), Ian McKellen (Magneto), Cate Blanchett, and Tilda Swinton.

Barghouti's family, in coordination with organizations in the United Kingdom, initiated the campaign late last year. The campaign's statement expresses grave concern over Barghouti's continued imprisonment, alleged mistreatment, and denial of legal rights. It urges the United Nations and global governments to actively pursue his release from Israeli custody. Organizers report that over 200 cultural figures, including actors, musicians, writers, and directors, have signed on in support.

Marwan Barghouti is recognized as a former leader of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades, an organization implicated in numerous suicide bombings and shooting attacks during the Second Intifada. Israeli authorities attribute several attacks between 2001 and 2002 to Barghouti, including murders and bombings that resulted in Israeli casualties. He was convicted in 2004 on five counts of murder and one of attempted murder, receiving a sentence of five consecutive life terms plus 40 years.

Despite his conviction, Barghouti's supporters view him as a significant Palestinian leader and a symbol of resistance, arguing that his imprisonment is unjust and that he endures violence in prison. In May, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa became the first sitting head of state to sign a petition advocating for Barghouti's release. Recent polling indicates Barghouti is a popular candidate for future Palestinian leadership.

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We express our grave concern at the continuing imprisonment of Marwan Barghouti, his violent mistreatment, and denial of legal rights whilst imprisoned. We call upon the United Nations and the Governments of the World to actively seek the release of Marwan Barghouti from Israeli prison.