Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, on Monday passed legislation making death by hanging the default punishment for West Bank Palestinians found guilty of murdering Israeli citizens.
A total of 62 of 120 lawmakers backed the bill, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose coalition depends on far-right parties. The measure, introduced by ultranationalist Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir, is a major victory for those parties.
Ben-Gvir, a West Bank settler who has often worn a noose on his lapel to symbolize the proposal, said: “Those who murder Jews will not continue to breathe and enjoy conditions in prison. This is a day of justice for the murdered, a day of deterrence for enemies.” Israeli media showed images of Ben-Gvir celebrating in the Knesset with fellow members.
The law is expected to be challenged in Israel’s Supreme Court. It has drawn strong criticism from Israeli and Palestinian rights groups, which have called it racist and draconian. Critics argue it is unlikely to deter attacks and note that Israel does not have sovereign jurisdiction over the occupied Palestinian territories.
The Palestinian presidency condemned the law, calling it “a war crime” in a statement carried by the Wafa news agency, and said such measures will not break Palestinian resolve or undermine their struggle for freedom and statehood.
Opposition lawmakers and rights advocates warned of reputational damage. “Every day that this law remains on the statute books of the State of Israel is a stain on our image and our values,” wrote opposition lawmaker Gilad Kariv.
A leading Israeli human rights group announced it had filed a petition with the High Court of Justice demanding annulment of the “Death Penalty for Terrorists Law,” enacted March 30, 2026. Legal experts say the High Court may find aspects of the amended law unconstitutional.
For more background, see DW’s explainer on the controversial bill.
Edited by: Rana Taha