The Israeli Parliament recently approved the Death Penalty Law for Terrorists, which establishes execution by hanging for Palestinians convicted of terrorism-related offenses. This decision has sparked a strong reaction from the European Union (EU), which describes it as discriminatory and a “serious setback.”
The head of European diplomacy, Kaja Kallas, stated that the EU opposes the death penalty in all cases and circumstances. She emphasized that, despite a complex security context in the region, Israel had maintained a de facto moratorium on executions, making it an example in this area.
Kallas added that the new law contradicts Israel’s previous commitments and raises concerns about its discriminatory nature. “The death penalty is a violation of the right to life and has no proven deterrent effect,” she asserted, while urging the country to respect its obligations under international law.
The spokesperson for the European Commission, Anouar El Anouni, reiterated that the introduction of this law represents a clear setback for human rights and that restrictive measures against Israel, such as sanctions on certain ministers and violent settlers, are already being considered. The EU will continue its diplomatic dialogue with the country to address these concerns.
