EU Presses Israel to Reconsider Bill Allowing Execution of Palestinians
The European Union is set to urge Israel to reverse its decision to allow the execution of Palestinians convicted of nationalistic killings. This move comes after Israel's parliament, the Knesset, approved a bill that permits the death penalty for terrorism offences or for "negating the existence of the State of Israel". The bill, which was championed by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, allows judges to hand down death sentences without a request from prosecutors.
The EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, has expressed "particular concern" over the bill's discriminatory character, stating that it marks a "grave regression" from Israel's previous commitments under international law. The EU has long maintained its opposition to capital punishment, citing it as a violation of the right to life and a breach of the absolute prohibition on torture and other ill-treatment.
The legislation, which was approved by 62 lawmakers, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has raised concerns that it will be applied almost exclusively to Palestinians rather than Jewish Israelis accused of similar acts. Legal experts warn that the measure will lead to a de facto discriminatory application of the law.
The EU's draft statement highlights Israel's previous commitment to maintaining a de facto moratorium on executions. Israel has only carried out executions twice: in 1962 and 1948. The EU notes that capital punishment has no proven deterrent effect and makes judicial errors irreversible.
The EU member states will have until around 10:00 am Brussels time today to propose amendments to the text.
When Kaja Kallas says Israel's bill marks a "grave regression" from its previous commitments, that means the EU sees this move as a clear betrayal of Israel's obligations under international law. This is not just a matter of principled opposition to capital punishment, but a serious concern about the erosion of human rights in Israel.
