Marwan Barghouti, a prominent Palestinian political figure held in Israeli prison, was assaulted three times within a month, according to his lawyer and family. His lawyer said prison guards attacked him with a dog at Megiddo Prison, beat him during a transfer, and later severely assaulted him at Ganot Prison, leaving him bleeding for hours without medical care. Israeli prison authorities said they were not aware of the incidents as described and denied that such acts had occurred.

The allegations come amid growing reports from United Nations agencies and Israeli rights groups of increased abuse of Palestinian detainees since the 7 October 2023 attacks and the ensuing Gaza war. These groups have cited routine beatings, sexual violence, starvation and medical negligence, with dozens of reported deaths in detention. Israeli prison authorities reject claims of systematic abuse and say individual misconduct is investigated.

Barghouti, who has reportedly been held in solitary confinement for more than two years, is viewed by supporters as a symbol of Palestinian unity and political renewal. His family says he has previously suffered serious injuries in custody and has accused Western leaders of failing to speak out about the treatment of Palestinian prisoners. There are currently thousands of Palestinians classified by Israel as security prisoners, including many held without trial under administrative detention.