Gaza Herald – The Israeli Knesset has officially approved a law permitting the execution of Palestinian detainees, following its passage in the second and third readings on Monday, sparking widespread international concern and condemnation.
The legislation passed with 62 votes in favor, 48 against, and one abstention. It was promoted by Member of Knesset Limor Son Har-Melech and strongly backed by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who has repeatedly taken a hardline stance on Palestinian detainees.
The law removes the possibility of a presidential pardon and allows execution within 90 days of sentencing, without requiring unanimous judicial approval.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have warned that the law could entrench apartheid-like practices and constitutes a serious violation of international law, potentially amounting to a war crime.
Several European countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy, have urged Israel to reverse the decision, stressing that capital punishment is inhumane and does not serve as an effective deterrent.
The move comes amid growing concerns over the conditions of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli detention, with reports documenting widespread abuses, including torture, medical neglect, and enforced disappearances.
