International activists and human rights groups organize simultaneous events worldwide demanding the freedom of Marwan al-Bergusi, imprisoned for 23 years by Israeli authorities.

Human rights defenders and activists across the world have launched a renewed international campaign calling for the release of Marwan al-Bergusi, the prominent Palestinian leader and Fatah Central Committee member, who has been held in Israeli prisons since 2002.

Al-Bergusi, 66, has been sentenced to five life terms and is widely regarded by supporters as a symbol of Palestinian resistance. The campaign has organized simultaneous events in multiple countries including South Africa, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, and several Arab nations, raising public awareness and demanding his immediate freedom.

Bergusi’s brother, Mukbil al-Bergusi, highlighted that the campaign revives long-standing efforts with coordinated actions in London, his birthplace in the West Bank village of Kuber, and other global cities. In France, dozens of municipalities have granted al-Bergusi honorary citizenship, while in the UK, artists and solidarity groups staged exhibitions, demonstrations, and creative projects. One British artist, known as “Jimmy,” reportedly created a football field–sized portrait of al-Bergusi inscribed with “FREE MARWAN.”

Human rights concerns and recent threats

Human rights organizations report that over 10,000 Palestinians are currently held in Israeli detention facilities, where prisoners — including children and women — face systematic torture, hunger, and medical neglect. Since October 2023, more than 90 detainees have reportedly died due to these harsh conditions.

Earlier, in February 2025, extreme-right Israeli minister Itamar Ben Gvir allegedly raided al-Bergusi’s cell and threatened him with death, sparking widespread condemnation from Palestinian and international observers.

Previous international attention

This campaign echoes earlier international actions, such as the October 27, 2023 solidarity event held at Robben Island in South Africa, the same site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Even US political figures, including former President Donald Trump, mentioned reviewing al-Bergusi’s detention in October 2023, though no public decision has been made.

Supporters argue that al-Bergusi’s release is critical not only for Palestinian national unity but also for advancing the broader struggle for the liberation of prisoners, given his widespread recognition and influence.(ILKHA)