Israel is racing toward a historic and deeply controversial legal shift as lawmakers prepare to vote on a bill that would introduce the death penalty for certain Palestinian prisoners. Human rights groups warn the proposal marks a dramatic escalation in Israel’s security policy. Critics say the legislation — now heading for a final vote in the Knesset — could transform the country’s justice system while intensifying already explosive tensions with Palestinians. Amnesty warns of ‘apartheid imposed by a noose’ The watchdog Amnesty International has condemned the bill in stark terms, calling it part of a broader campaign against Palestinians. Kristyan Benedict, a crisis response manager at Amnesty UK, said the measure would add “another weapon” to what he described as decades of systematic repression. The group argues the law would deepen an already severe prison crisis, where roughly 10,000 Palestinians are believed to be held in Israeli detention facilities. Hardline allies push bill to the brink The legislation has been championed by far-right politicians allied with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has become the bill’s most visible supporter, celebrating its advance through parliament and declaring the vote a “historic day for the State of Israel.” Under the proposal, individuals convicted of terror attacks that result in Israeli deaths could face execution by hanging within 90 days of sentencing. Justice without appeal The bill, introduced by lawmaker Limor Son Har-Melech, would sharply restrict legal safeguards. Judges would not need a unanimous ruling to impose a death sentence, and those convicted would be barred from seeking a presidential pardon. Prisoners facing execution would also be held in isolated facilities with no visitors except authorised officials. Israeli media report that authorities have already begun preparing prison systems for possible executions. Europe warns of a ‘grave step backward’ The proposal has drawn sharp criticism from the European Union, which opposes capital punishment in all circumstances. EU foreign affairs spokesman Anouar El Anouni warned the legislation would reverse Israel’s long-standing informal moratorium on executions. Diplomats say the stakes extend far beyond the courtroom. If passed, the law could inflame an already volatile conflict — and push Israel into one of the most contentious human rights battles in its modern history. Israel's death penalty law is 'weapon to eliminate Palestinians' claims Amnesty as 10k held
