Israel’s parliament approved the first reading of a bill introducing the death penalty for acts of “terrorism,” a move drawing sharp international criticism for potential discriminatory enforcement.

The vote, held on Monday in the 120-member Knesset, passed with 39 in favor and 16 against.

The proposed amendment, introduced by far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, would allow courts to impose the death penalty on individuals who kill Israelis with “racist” motives and intent to harm the State of Israel or the revival of the Jewish people in its land.

Supporters argue the legislation is designed to curb terrorism and act as a “heavy deterrent.” Ben-Gvir described the approval on social media as “making history,” highlighting the bill’s alignment with his Jewish Power party’s agenda.

Criticism and human rights concerns

Human rights organizations have condemned the bill, warning that in practice, it would almost exclusively apply to Palestinians, while Jewish hardliners who attack Palestinians would likely remain unaffected.

Amnesty International’s Erika Guevara Rosas called the development “a dangerous and dramatic step backwards,” describing it as a discriminatory tool of “state-sanctioned killing, domination, and oppression.” She emphasized that the death penalty should not be imposed under any circumstances.

The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates labeled the bill “a new form of escalating Israeli extremism and criminality,” while Palestinian groups said it reflects the “ugly fascist face of the rogue Zionist occupation” and violates international law.

Historical context and current situation

Israel has rarely applied the death penalty; Adolf Eichmann was the last person executed in 1962. Attempts to introduce similar laws in the past failed, making this bill particularly notable.

The vote comes amid the recent United States-brokered ceasefire in Gaza, which aimed to halt Israel’s military operations. Critics argue the bill undermines efforts for peace, especially as reports continue of attacks in Gaza and the West Bank, despite the ceasefire.

More than 10,000 Palestinians, including women and children, are currently held in Israeli prisons, raising concerns over potential future enforcement of the legislation.