Muslim Nations Condemn Israel’s New Death Penalty Law for Palestinians

Muslim Nations Condemn Israel’s New Death Penalty Law for Palestinians

Several Muslim-majority countries have strongly condemned Israel’s new death penalty law, which reintroduces capital punishment for certain terrorism-related offenses, warning that it could further escalate tensions in the Middle East. The legislation, passed by Israel’s Knesset on March 30, 2026, allows death by hanging as the default sentence for Palestinians convicted in military courts of deadly attacks classified as terrorism, with executions scheduled within 90 days of conviction.

The foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Qatar, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates issued a joint statement criticizing the law, describing it as a discriminatory measure that undermines the fundamental rights of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. The ministers warned that the legislation reinforces an apartheid-like system and could inflame tensions on the ground.

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Human rights organizations, including the Association for Civil Rights in Israel and the International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute, have opposed the law, filing petitions with Israel’s Supreme Court to block it. Critics argue that the legislation disproportionately targets Palestinians, applying primarily in military courts in the occupied territories, while allowing Israeli civilians discretion in sentencing for terrorism-motivated murder.

The law was introduced by the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who argued that stricter penalties are necessary to deter terrorism and protect citizens. However, opponents say that the measure risks undermining the rule of law and exacerbating ongoing conflicts.

The legislation has drawn strong international criticism. The Palestinian Authority condemned the law as a violation of international law, potentially amounting to a war crime under the Fourth Geneva Convention. UN human rights officials have also expressed concern, highlighting the risk to civilian safety, due process, and human rights protections.

Muslim nations and international observers continue to call for restraint and adherence to international legal standards. They emphasize that reinstating the death penalty in a volatile conflict zone could heighten instability and hinder prospects for peace.

Muslim Nations Condemn Israel’s New Death Penalty Law for Palestinians