Summary
Israel's parliament approved a law making the death penalty the default punishment for Palestinians convicted of lethal attacks considered "acts of terrorism." The law was supported by far-right politicians and faces criticism as discriminatory. Some European countries and Palestinian groups expressed concern about the law's impact on democratic principles and human rights.
Key Facts
- Israel's parliament passed a new death penalty law for Palestinians convicted of specific deadly attacks.
- The law allows execution by hanging within 90 to 180 days after sentencing.
- Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir supported the law.
- This law targets attacks deemed as efforts to "negate the existence of the state of Israel."
- The law passed with a vote of 62 to 48 in the Knesset, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supporting it.
- Critics, including European nations and Palestinian authorities, argue it risks undermining democratic principles.
- The Palestinian Authority and Hamas condemned the law, citing threats to Palestinian prisoners.
- Israel's Supreme Court is expected to consider a challenge against the law by the Association for Civil Rights in Israel.
