Israel's Knesset Approves Death Penalty for Terrorism Convictions

The Israeli Parliament (Knesset) approved a law introducing the death penalty for acts of terrorism, passing with 62 votes in favor and 48 against. The law is considered discriminatory by human rights organizations and European governments because it will primarily apply to Palestinians in Israel and occupied territories.

Key points

• The law was promoted by the far-right Jewish Power party, led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir.
• The death penalty can be applied to those who intentionally cause death as part of a terrorist act with the intent to deny the existence of the State of Israel.
• The last execution carried out by Israel was Adolf Eichmann in 1962.
• Amnesty International denounced the law for expanding capital offenses and eliminating key due process guarantees.

Why it matters

This legislation marks a significant shift in Israeli penal policy, potentially weakening the rule of law, and has drawn sharp international criticism regarding its discriminatory application.