Israel Approves Law Allowing Death Penalty for Detainees Held Since October 7

May 13, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Israel Approves Law Allowing Death Penalty for Detainees Held Since October 7

Israeli Parliament Approves Death Penalty Bill for October 7 Detainees

The Israeli Knesset has approved a new law that establishes a special tribunal with the authority to impose the death penalty on Palestinians deemed linked to the October 7 attacks, which were led by Hamas. The legislation is set to take effect on October 7.

According to the bill, the special tribunal will be responsible for trying individuals accused of involvement in the attacks. If convicted, they may face a sentence of death.

Human rights organizations have expressed concerns that the new law would compromise fair trial protections and make executions easier. They argue that the establishment of a separate tribunal with enhanced powers could lead to unequal treatment of Palestinians compared to Israeli citizens.

The bill was passed by the Knesset on [date], after being debated by lawmakers. The legislation is now set to be implemented, pending any potential appeals or revisions.

Details of the law are as follows: the special tribunal will have jurisdiction over individuals accused of involvement in the October 7 attacks; the tribunal’s decisions can be appealed to higher courts; and the death penalty will be imposed if convicted.

The Israeli government has not commented on the human rights implications of the new law. The bill is set to take effect on October 7, marking a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the October 7 attacks.

Source: Al Jazeera