Israel Reinstates Hanging for Capital Crimes, First Death Penalty Law Since 1962

Israel Passes Law Authorizing Death by Hanging

According to Главком: Israel's parliament has passed a law authorizing the death penalty by hanging for murders of Israelis committed with nationalist motives. The measure passed with a majority of 62 votes to 48 and has drawn criticism both domestically and internationally. This legislation marks the first time Israel has enacted a capital punishment law since 1962, when Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann was executed. The law's passage reflects a significant shift in Israel's domestic security policy under its current government.

The law introduces capital punishment as a default penalty in military courts, which try Palestinians from the West Bank. It also stipulates that a death sentence can be commuted to life imprisonment only under exceptional circumstances. The push for this law was spearheaded by the far-right coalition led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. During the vote, opposition members and some Arab lawmakers walked out of the chamber in protest.

Domestic and International Condemnation

Critics point out that the law does not require a unanimous judicial verdict for a death sentence and offers no clear path for clemency. The foreign ministers of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and Australia have condemned its adoption. Human rights organizations have already challenged it in Israel's Supreme Court. Furthermore, the Shin Bet security agency has warned that implementing such a practice could provoke new cycles of revenge attacks.

Commenting on the situation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized: 'Our position regarding the establishment of a Palestinian state on any territory has not changed.'

The law's adoption signals a change in Israel's approach to combating violence and terrorism, particularly in the context of relations with Palestinians. The introduction of capital punishment may heighten regional tensions, as rights advocates have expressed concern over potential consequences for justice and the humanitarian situation. The strong international reaction also indicates possible future diplomatic repercussions for Israel, especially concerning its relations with Western European nations and other states. These developments could substantially influence the future trajectory of the conflict in the region.