Khanna urges Israel to free Barghouti to enable Palestinian statehood
US Representative Ro Khanna has called for the immediate release of imprisoned Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti, arguing that his freedom is essential for Palestinians to choose their own leaders and for a future peace process. Khanna, who is weighing a 2028 presidential bid, stated that Barghouti could help establish a Palestinian state living alongside Israel, despite the latter's 2004 conviction for attacks that killed Israelis. The call coincides with the UN General Assembly and recent polling showing Barghouti as the leading candidate in a hypothetical presidential race, outpacing both Hamas and current Palestinian Authority leadership.
Key points
- Ro Khanna called for the release of Marwan Barghouti, stating that Palestinians must be allowed to choose their own leaders.
- Khanna argued that Barghouti could facilitate a Palestinian state living in peace with Israel, citing support from some former Israeli security officials.
- The representative emphasized that release does not equate to a pardon or absolution of crimes, noting that human rights groups have challenged the fairness of the 2004 trial.
- Khanna drew parallels to the Northern Ireland peace process and the Oslo Accords, suggesting that former adversaries can participate in political coexistence.
- The statement was made during the UN General Assembly week, as Khanna seeks to elevate his foreign policy profile ahead of a potential 2028 presidential run.
Background
Barghouti has been imprisoned in Israel since the Second Intifada, receiving five life sentences in 2004 for his role in attacks that killed Israelis. He has consistently denied responsibility for civilian attacks and rejected the authority of the Israeli court. Recent polling from the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research indicates that Barghouti would receive 54% support in a hypothetical presidential race, significantly outperforming Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya and current Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. Presidential elections are expected in early 2027. In August 2026, a campaign involving over 200 cultural figures, including actors from Marvel films, also called for his release, highlighting his status as a symbol of resistance for some and a convicted murderer for others.
Why it matters
Khanna's call represents a significant shift in US Democratic foreign policy rhetoric, positioning him among the most prominent lawmakers explicitly advocating for Barghouti's release. This move aligns with broader debates within the US Congress regarding the reassessment of longstanding policies toward Israel and the Palestinians. As Khanna weighs a presidential bid, his stance on this issue signals a potential pivot in US diplomatic approaches, emphasizing Palestinian sovereignty and the inclusion of imprisoned figures in future peace negotiations. The timing, coinciding with the UN General Assembly, underscores the growing international focus on the shape of future Palestinian political leadership.
What to watch
The immediate focus will be on the reaction from Israeli authorities and the US administration to Khanna's call. President Donald Trump had previously indicated he was considering urging Israel to release Barghouti as part of postwar leadership arrangements. With Palestinian presidential elections expected in early 2027, the political weight of Barghouti's name in polling may influence diplomatic discussions. Khanna's continued advocacy could lead to further pressure on Israel, while also intensifying debates within the US Congress about the balance between security concerns and diplomatic engagement with Palestinian leadership.
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