Summary
Israel has approved a new law allowing the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of fatal terror attacks. This law has faced criticism from human rights groups and European governments for being discriminatory. Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir celebrated its passing, while some Israeli lawmakers and foreign leaders expressed concerns.
Key Facts
- Israel's parliament, the Knesset, passed a law approving the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of fatal terror acts.
- The law allows Israeli courts to also impose the death penalty on Israeli citizens under similar charges but is seen as mainly affecting Palestinians.
- The legislation was passed with 62 votes out of 120 parliamentary members.
- Israeli Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir celebrated the law's passage with a bottle of champagne in the Knesset.
- Critics argue the law discriminates against Palestinians and may undermine democratic principles.
- The law will take effect in 30 days but is expected to face legal challenges.
- The death penalty will not apply retroactively to current prisoners, including those from the October 7, 2023 attacks.
- The last time Israel executed someone was in 1962, a Nazi war criminal.
