California Rep. Ro Khanna called for Israel to release Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti from prison. He argued Palestinians should choose their own leaders. Khanna said Barghouti could help deliver a Palestinian state living peacefully alongside Israel.
In a video statement, Khanna described Barghouti as non-corrupt, secular, and respected across Palestinian factions. He said former Shin Bet and Mossad directors had also supported releasing him. Khanna said release would not provide “a pardon or moral absolution” for crimes Barghouti may have committed.
He added that human rights groups have questioned whether Barghouti received a fair trial. Khanna framed his release as a step toward moving the peace process forward. He compared the situation with past negotiations involving Yasser Arafat, Yitzhak Rabin, and the IRA.
Khanna argued political participation can advance peace even when participants carry violent pasts. He said Palestinians need a greater voice in sovereignty and negotiations. “For now, we must begin to give Palestinians a voice in their sovereignty and the peace process,” he said. “Release Barghouti.”
Ro Khanna Faces Backlash Over Marwan Barghouti Release Call
The response quickly centered on Khanna’s role as a U.S. lawmaker and his decision to intervene in Barghouti’s case.
“He’s a murderer who is Not in your jurisdiction,” one user wrote. Another focused on Khanna’s responsibilities at home: “You were elected to help Americans, not Palestinian terrorists.”
A separate response questioned his fitness for office over the position. “People who campaign for murderers to be released are unfit for office in civil society.” Another predicted political fallout, writing, “This tweet marks the end of your political career.”
Others challenged the request itself. “Why are you advocating for the release of a man who murdered 5 people?” one response asked.
Barghouti remains imprisoned in Israel. Khanna’s call leaves the dispute over his possible role in future Palestinian leadership unresolved.
