An Israeli parliamentary panel has approved a contentious bill that introduces the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners convicted of killing Israelis on “nationalistic grounds.” The legislation, spearheaded by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir’s far-right Jewish Power party, marks a significant escalation in Israel’s judicial approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The bill, which excludes Israelis who kill Palestinians under similar circumstances, is set for its first reading in the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, as early as Wednesday. This development follows months of advocacy by far-right factions, particularly since the onset of the Gaza conflict in October 2023. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who had previously hesitated due to concerns over the safety of Israeli captives, has now endorsed the bill after the release of all surviving hostages by Hamas last month. Gal Hirsch, the Prisoners and Missing Persons Coordinator, stated that earlier objections to the bill were no longer relevant, framing it as a crucial tool in combating terrorism and securing hostage releases. However, the proposal has drawn sharp criticism from Hamas and Palestinian rights groups, who describe it as a “war crime” and a manifestation of Israel’s “fascist face.” The Palestinian Center for Prisoners’ Advocacy warned that the bill could exacerbate regional instability, potentially leading to unpredictable consequences. Meanwhile, human rights organizations have raised alarms over Israel’s treatment of Palestinian detainees, citing widespread torture and inhumane conditions in Israeli prisons. Since October 2023, Israel has detained thousands of Palestinians, many without charge or trial, and has restricted access to legal representation and international oversight, further intensifying concerns over human rights violations.
Israel: Bill allowing death penalty for Palestinian prisoners advances to parliament
