Sources from Sky News Arabia reported that Hamas has strongly demanded the release of Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti and other Palestinian faction leaders as part of the initial phase of a prisoner exchange deal. The sources noted that Hamas's request has been met with acceptance and support from intermediaries and the U.S. side, which advocates for the idea of a renewed authority, since Marwan Barghouti represents the national movement and is widely accepted in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Furthermore, the sources stated that Hamas's call for Barghouti's release stems from the movement's belief that it cannot return to governance in Gaza and considers Barghouti the closest and safest option for ruling the area. Reports in February suggested that Barghouti's name was brought up during ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel. The Associated Press indicated that Hamas leaders demanded Israel release Barghouti as part of any agreement to stop fighting in Gaza. This request again highlighted Barghouti's significant role in Palestinian politics, despite having spent over two decades in Israeli prisons. His release is expected to pave the way for his eventual election to the presidency of the authority.
