Israel Passes Law Allowing Death Penalty

On March 30, 2026, Israel’s parliament passed a law authorising the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of lethal attacks, particularly those involving the killing of Israelis. The legislation was approved by a vote of 62 to 48 and takes effect after 30 days.

The law makes capital punishment the default sentence in military courts for Palestinians from the West Bank convicted of acts classified as terrorism, with executions to be carried out by hanging within 90 days of sentencing.

Supporters of the bill included far‑right lawmakers and the national security minister, who argued that harsher punishments are needed for deadly attacks. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was present for the vote in the Knesset chamber.

The law has drawn criticism from human rights groups, international organisations, and several European governments, who described it as discriminatory and in violation of international legal standards. A legal challenge has been filed with Israel’s Supreme Court questioning the law’s authority over Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.