Israel has passed a law allowing executions, but only for Palestinian prisoners under specific circumstances.
It is not a general death penalty for all prisoners, and it does not apply to Israeli citizens.
Israel’s Knesset approved a law allowing the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners
Passed 62–48 in March 2026.
Applies exclusively to Palestinians in areas under Israeli control.
Targets Palestinians accused of what Israel defines as “terrorist acts.”
Execution becomes the default punishment
For premeditated murder in these cases, the death penalty is now the default.
Life imprisonment is allowed only in “exceptional circumstances.”
Executions would be carried out by hanging
Within 90 days of a final ruling.
Military courts can issue death sentences without unanimous agreement.
The law does not apply to Israeli citizens
Israelis who kill Palestinians are not subject to this law.
This asymmetry has drawn strong criticism from rights groups.
h/t Distinct-Advice9076