Marvel Stars Advocate for Release of Detained Palestinian Figure

Over 20 Marvel actors have joined a campaign advocating for the release of Palestinian militant leader Marwan Barghouti, as reported by the group freemarwannow’s Instagram post on Friday.

The initiative, led by Barghouti’s family in late 2023 with coordination from UK-based organizations, includes prominent figures such as Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange), Mark Ruffalo (Hulk), Ian McKellen (Magneto), and others like Cate Blanchett and Tilda Swinton.

According to the group, Barghouti’s imprisonment has involved “grave concern” over his conditions and denial of legal rights, prompting calls for international intervention from the UN and global governments.

Over 200 cultural figures, including actors, musicians, and directors, have signed the campaign, underscoring widespread support for Barghouti’s cause.

Barghouti, a former leader of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades—a militant group linked to numerous attacks during the Second Intifada—faces five life sentences plus 40 years in prison after being convicted by Israel in 2004 for five murders and one attempted murder.

Proponents argue he is unjustly detained and subjected to violence, framing him as a symbol of Palestinian resistance. Notably, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa became the first head of state to sign an international petition for his release in May.

A recent poll revealed Barghouti holds significant popularity, with 54% of likely voters indicating support for him in a hypothetical presidential election.

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