Israel’s parliament has passed a law that makes the death penalty the default sentence for Palestinians convicted of deadly attacks. The law was approved in the Knesset with 62 votes in favor and 48 against. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supported the bill, while the far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir celebrated its passage. On social media, he wrote, “We made history!!! We promised. We delivered.”
The legislation requires that Palestinians convicted in Israeli military courts for “acts of terrorism” be executed by hanging within 90 days. The sentence could be delayed up to 180 days, but there is no possibility of pardon. Although Jewish Israelis could theoretically face the death penalty under the law, in practice it will almost only apply to Palestinians. Supporters argue the law is necessary. Limor Son-Har-Melech, who survived a Palestinian attack that killed her husband, said the law prevents dangerous criminals from being released and committing further attacks.
Widespread Criticism and International Concerns
The law has drawn sharp criticism from international and local observers. The UN’s human rights chief, Volker Türk, said the legislation is discriminatory and could be considered a war crime. He added, “The death penalty raises the unacceptable risk of executing innocent people.”
Opposition leaders in Israel also spoke out. Yair Golan, head of the Democrats party, said the law is “an unnecessary piece of legislation designed to get Ben-Gvir more likes” and that it does not improve Israel’s security. Human rights groups, including Amnesty International and the Association for Civil Rights in Israel, have called for the law to be repealed. Amnesty International warned it strips Palestinians of fair-trial safeguards.
Internationally, the UK, France, Germany, and Italy expressed concern that the law undermines democratic principles. Palestinian authorities condemned it as a move to legalize extrajudicial killings, while Hamas warned it endangers the lives of prisoners in Israeli jails.
Critics say the law marks a dangerous shift in Israel’s conflict governance. It institutionalizes unequal treatment and threatens basic human rights. The Supreme Court of Israel may now consider legal challenges. Experts warn the law could deepen tensions in the region and invite global scrutiny, while supporters argue it strengthens Israel’s security.
