Israel’s parliament has approved a controversial law introducing the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of murdering Israelis, a move that has drawn sharp criticism at home and abroad.
The legislation, passed late Tuesday with 62 votes in favor and 48 against, was strongly backed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and far‑right allies, who argued it would serve as a deterrent against attacks.
Under the new law, Palestinians in the West Bank found guilty of nationalistic killings will face execution by hanging, while Israeli citizens convicted of similar crimes may still be sentenced to life imprisonment at the court’s discretion.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, a vocal supporter of the bill, underscored his stance by wearing a lapel pin shaped like a noose during the vote, symbolizing his push for harsher punishments.
Human rights groups and foreign governments condemned the measure as discriminatory and a violation of international norms, warning it could inflame tensions across the region.
Legal experts have already signaled challenges to the law, arguing that it undermines Israel’s democratic principles and judicial independence. The legislation is not retroactive and will apply only to future cases.
