• Marwan Barghouti, a key Palestinian leader, remains imprisoned despite ongoing prisoner swap discussions.
• Israel has categorically refused to release Barghouti, viewing him as a potential unifying figure for Palestinians.
• Experts compare Barghouti to Nelson Mandela, noting his influence and popularity among Palestinians.
• About 250 other Palestinian prisoners are set to be released, but Barghouti is not among them.
• Barghouti's political activities and hunger strike demonstrate his leadership potential even while imprisoned.

Marwan Barghouti, currently imprisoned in Israel, is recognized as a pivotal figure in Palestinian politics. Despite being one of the most popular leaders among Palestinians, Israel has announced that he will not be released as part of the recent prisoner exchange deal with Hamas. Approximately 250 other prisoners are expected to be released, underscoring Israel's refusal to include Barghouti, who is viewed as a potential successor to the Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and a significant unifying force, according to TRT World, India Times, and Los Angeles Times.

Barghouti, often referred to as the "Palestinian Mandela," has garnered widespread support among Palestinians. His leadership during critical uprisings and a strong endorsement for a two-state solution have solidified his status as a key figure in the Palestinian struggle. Surveys consistently show that he remains the most favored Palestinian leader, capturing more than 50% support in recent polls, which makes Israel's decision to exclude him from prisoner releases particularly controversial, according to TRT World, India Times, and Los Angeles Times.

The Israeli government views Barghouti as a terrorist, having been sentenced to multiple life sentences for attacks connected to violence against Israelis. However, his advocates argue that his imprisonment only amplifies his status as a symbol of Palestinian resistance. Barghouti's narrative of opposing occupation while advocating for a peaceful resolution resonates with many, making his potential release a significant concern for Israeli officials who fear his influence could unify various Palestinian factions, according to TRT World and Los Angeles Times.

Diverse voices within Palestinian society and international discussions also highlight Barghouti's importance. Senior Hamas officials have repeatedly demanded his release in negotiations, citing his ability to bridge divisions between both Hamas and Fatah factions. Israel's refusal to release Barghouti reflects its strategy to maintain the current political structure, where a weakened Palestinian leadership limits the potential for any united resistance movement, according to India Times and Los Angeles Times.

In August, Barghouti was notably admonished in a video shared by Israel's national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, indicating that Israel remains watchful of Barghouti's influence even behind prison walls. His long-term imprisonment and efforts to advocate for fellow prisoners, such as during a major hunger strike, showcase his continued political activism, leading some observers to characterize him as a leader transcending traditional factionalism within Palestinian politics, according to TRT World, India Times, and Los Angeles Times.