Israel's parliament, the Knesset, approved a contentious bill on Monday that introduces the death penalty, administered by hanging, as the standard punishment for Palestinians convicted of fatal terror attacks. The legislation passed with a vote of 62 in favor among the 120 members of the Knesset.

Controversial Legislation and Parliamentary Reaction

The new law grants Israeli courts the option to impose the death penalty on Israeli citizens convicted of similar charges. However, legal analysts suggest the specific language effectively limits the application of this sentence primarily to Palestinian citizens of Israel, excluding Jewish citizens. Critics point out that the clause allowing execution for those who seek to "negate the existence of the state of Israel" would predominantly target Palestinians.

Celebration and Opposition in the Knesset

The passage of the bill was met with celebrations within the Knesset. Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir, a key proponent of the law, was seen waving a bottle of champagne in triumph.

Conversely, lawmakers who opposed the measure expressed dismay and left the chamber before the final votes were tallied. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the move, stating in parliament, "We did not establish a Jewish state to adopt the moral standards of radical Islam." He added that the law suggests acting "like the murderers" when facing those who seek to kill Israelis.

Details of the New Sentencing Law

Under the new statute, an execution by hanging could be decreed within 90 days of sentencing. While there is some provision for delay, the law explicitly removes the right to clemency, though it allows for a life sentence commutation under unspecified "special circumstances."

Minister Ben-Gvir hailed the outcome, declaring it a "day of justice for the murdered, a day of deterrence for enemies." The legislation is set to take effect 30 days after its passage, though it is expected to face immediate legal challenges that could potentially delay its implementation.

Widespread Condemnation and International Response

Human rights organizations and European governments have strongly condemned the law, labeling it discriminatory. The Association of Civil Rights in Israel challenged the law, calling it "discriminatory by design" and arguing the Knesset enacted it "without legal authority" over West Bank Palestinians who are not Israeli citizens.

On Tuesday, the foreign ministers of the U.K., Germany, France, and Italy released a joint statement expressing their "deep concern" regarding the bill. They specifically highlighted its "de facto discriminatory character," warning that it risks "undermining Israel’s commitments with regards to democratic principles."

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas responded firmly, asserting that the legislation "will not break the will of the Palestinian people or undermine their steadfastness.” This law represents the latest action by the current nationalist-religious coalition that has caused alarm among Israel’s allies, particularly amid ongoing criticism regarding settler violence in the West Bank.

It is important to note that the legislation will not be applied retroactively, meaning it will not affect current prisoners, including Hamas-led militants involved in the October 7, 2023, attacks.