Israel’s parliament has approved a controversial law that could allow the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of killing Israelis, a move that has sparked strong criticism both at home and abroad.
The bill, backed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government and promoted by far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, was passed after a lengthy debate in parliament.
Supporters say the law is meant to deter attacks and improve security.
Ben-Gvir described it as one of the most important measures introduced in recent years.
However, critics argue the law is deeply flawed and discriminatory.
They point out that it is designed in a way that would mostly apply to Palestinians, while Jewish Israelis accused of similar crimes are unlikely to face the same punishment.
Under the new law, military courts in the occupied West Bank which primarily try Palestinians would be able to impose the death penalty as the standard punishment for certain killings.
These courts would also be allowed to reach verdicts by majority decision, rather than requiring full agreement among judges.
In addition, executions would have to be carried out within 90 days of a final ruling, a provision that legal experts say could increase the risk of wrongful executions.
In contrast, cases involving Israeli citizens would be handled differently.
The death penalty would only apply under specific conditions, and judges would still have the option to impose life imprisonment instead.
The law has drawn sharp reactions internationally.
Countries including Germany, France, Italy and the United Kingdom have urged Israel to reconsider, warning that the legislation appears discriminatory and may violate international law.
Human rights groups have also strongly condemned the move, describing it as extreme and unfair.
Some have already indicated plans to challenge the law in Israel’s Supreme Court.
Although Israel technically allows the death penalty for certain crimes, it has rarely been used.
The last execution carried out by the state was in 1962.
The new law is expected to take effect within weeks, though legal challenges could delay or block its implementation.
