Former Colombian president urges Israel to free Barghouti to revive peace prospects

Former Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos called on Israel to release jailed Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti, arguing that his freedom could unlock a credible path towards lasting peace.

Speaking at the United Nations on Monday on behalf of diplomatic leaders' group The Elders, Santos says Israel cannot credibly claim to seek peace while keeping Barghouti behind bars.

The Elders, founded by Nelson Mandela, brings together former heads of state and senior global figures who focus on conflict resolution and diplomacy.

“If Israel really wants peace, Israel should release him — and his release would help very much the possibility of having a long-term peace in Israel and Palestine,” Santos tells delegates.

Santos says The Elders have consistently pressed for Barghouti’s release, portraying him as a leading advocate of a two-state solution and the most popular political figure among Palestinians.

He adds that Barghouti represents a serious and legitimate counterpart for negotiations, in contrast to Israel’s continued strategy of sidelining Palestinian political leadership through imprisonment and repression.

The Elders have repeatedly criticised Israel’s policies for undermining any meaningful peace process.