BREAKING: Israel’s parliament has passed a law imposing the death penalty on Palestinians convicted of lethal attacks, a move sharply criticised as discriminatory by European nations and rights groups. The legislation makes executions the default punishment for Palestinians in the occupied West Bank found guilty of deadly attacks deemed terrorism, while Israelis are excluded. The bill allows military courts to impose death sentences within 90 days, limits legal consultations to video link, and closes avenues for appeal or clemency. It was initiated by the far-right Otzma Yehudit party led by Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. European governments, UN experts, and rights organizations warn the measure violates international law, discriminates against Palestinians, and risks undermining Israel’s democratic commitments. Executions would be carried out by hanging, with courts able to decide by simple majority.
