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Israel’s parliament on Monday approved in a first reading a controversial bill allowing the death penalty for individuals convicted of killing Israelis, a move widely seen as targeting Palestinians.
The bill passed by a vote of 39 in favor and 16 against out of 120 members, according to the Israeli Broadcasting Authority (KAN). It must still pass two additional readings before becoming law.
During the Knesset session, tensions flared when Arab lawmaker Ayman Odeh exchanged heated words with far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, nearly leading to a physical confrontation.
The legislation was introduced by Ben-Gvir’s far-right Jewish Power party and will now be referred to Knesset committees for further preparation ahead of its second and third readings.
The draft law stipulates that “any person who intentionally or through recklessness causes the death of an Israeli citizen, when motivated by racism, hatred, or intent to harm Israel, shall face the death penalty.” It also bars any reduction of the sentence once imposed.
After the vote, Ben-Gvir was seen distributing sweets inside the Knesset chamber and later celebrated on the social media platform X, writing: “Jewish Power is making history. We promised and delivered. The death penalty law for terrorists has passed its first reading.”
Human rights organizations have criticized the bill, warning that it disproportionately targets Palestinians and deepens existing discrimination.
The vote comes amid Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. Palestinians continue to face widespread raids and detentions as the conflict has entered its second year since October 2023.
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