Israel’s parliament has approved a controversial law that makes execution by hanging the standard punishment for Palestinians convicted in military courts of carrying out deadly attacks. The move fulfils a long-standing demand from the far-right allies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

However, critics argue that the law applies unevenly. It targets individuals whose actions are seen as aiming to “end Israel’s existence”, a condition that, in practice, would mostly affect Palestinians rather than Jewish Israelis accused of similar crimes.

Global Concern Over Discriminatory Impact

The legislation has triggered strong international reactions. It comes at a time when Israel is already facing criticism over rising violence by Jewish settlers in the occupied West Bank and its ongoing war in Gaza.

Several observers say the law reinforces concerns about unequal treatment under the legal system and may deepen tensions in the region.

Strict Rules: No Clemency, Fast Execution

The new law outlines strict provisions. It mandates execution by hanging within 90 days after sentencing. While limited delays are possible, the law removes the right to seek clemency.

Courts may still impose life imprisonment instead of the death penalty, but only in undefined “special circumstances”, leaving significant room for interpretation.

Historically, Israel abolished the death penalty for murder in 1954. The only execution after a civilian trial was that of Adolf Eichmann in 1962 for his role in the Holocaust.

Although military courts in the West Bank already have the authority to issue death sentences, they have never used it until now.

Ben-Gvir Pushes Law as Deterrence

The law was strongly backed by Itamar Ben-Gvir, a far-right minister known for his hardline stance. He had even worn symbolic noose-shaped pins before the vote.

Speaking in parliament, he said, “This is a day of justice for the murdered, a day of deterrence for enemies,” and added, “Whoever chooses terror chooses death.”

Supporters of the law believe it will discourage attacks and prevent kidnappings aimed at securing prisoner exchanges.

Palestinian Leadership Rejects Move

Palestinian leaders have strongly opposed the legislation. Mahmoud Abbas called it a violation of international law and dismissed its effectiveness.

“Such laws and measures will not break the will of the Palestinian people or undermine their steadfastness,” his office said.

“Nor will they deter them from continuing their legitimate struggle for freedom, independence, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.”

Meanwhile, militant groups such as Hamas and Islamic Jihad urged retaliatory attacks in response to the law.

Rights Groups Call Law ‘Discriminatory’

Human rights organisations within Israel sharply criticised the measure. The Association for Civil Rights in Israel described it as “an act of institutionalized discrimination and racist violence against Palestinians” and has challenged it in the Supreme Court.

Critics highlight that the law’s wording could disproportionately affect Israel’s Arab minority, many of whom identify as Palestinian, rather than Jewish citizens.

European countries including Germany, France, Italy, and Britain also raised concerns, calling the law “de facto discriminatory” and warning that it undermines democratic principles.

Additionally, a group of UN experts warned that vague definitions of “terrorist” in the law could lead to the death penalty being applied to actions that may not qualify as terrorism.

Legal and Constitutional Challenges Ahead

Legal experts in Israel have questioned the constitutionality of the law, increasing the likelihood that the Supreme Court may strike it down.

Reports suggest that Netanyahu attempted to soften some provisions to reduce international backlash. The final version passed with support from 62 members of the 120-seat parliament.

Debate Over Effectiveness of Death Penalty

Organizations like Amnesty International argue that capital punishment does not reduce crime more effectively than life imprisonment.

“There is no evidence that the death penalty is any more effective in reducing crime than life imprisonment,” the group states.

Global Trend Moving Away from Capital Punishment

Globally, the use of the death penalty is declining. According to Amnesty International, 113 countries have abolished it, while 54 still retain it, including democracies like the United States and Japan.

Meanwhile, Israeli rights group B’Tselem points out that military courts in the West Bank have a conviction rate of 96% and have faced allegations of coercive interrogation methods.

Political Context and Future Implications

Ben-Gvir, who was convicted in 2007 for racist incitement and support for the banned Kach group, has made stricter measures against Palestinians a central part of his political agenda.

Since taking office, he has also faced criticism over prison conditions and alleged mistreatment of Palestinian detainees.

The passage of this law reflects the priorities of Netanyahu’s nationalist coalition and is likely to remain a major political and legal issue ahead of Israel’s next national election in October 2026.