Israel seeks execution of Palestinians, international community largely silent on issue

Knesset Pushes Through Bill Allowing Execution of Palestinians

A bill allowing the execution of Palestinians is being pushed through the Knesset, with no significant international attention. The bill, part of a coalition government deal in 2022, would enable the occupation authorities to legally execute Palestinians convicted of planning attacks or killing Israelis.

The bill’s provisions include execution within 90 days of sentencing, no appeals, and death by hanging. Palestinian prisoners charged with these crimes would face the death penalty. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has repeatedly called for the execution of Palestinians, including during a recent visit to Ofer Prison.

International indifference towards Palestinian prisoners has been a recurring issue. In the past two and a half years, there has been little global reaction to the mistreatment of Palestinians held in Israeli jails with or without charges. The use of the term “prisoners” to refer to Palestinians is considered misleading, as it downplays the context of military occupation and colonization.

Currently, more than a third of Palestinians held by Israel are under administrative detention, meaning they are being held without charge. Some are women and children. Palestinians are also tried in military courts, which have been criticized for their bias against the occupied population.

The International Committee of the Red Cross has been prevented from visiting Palestinian detainees on several occasions. The Israeli government has denied allegations of torture, abuse, and medical neglect in its prisons. However, at least 88 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli detention since October 7, 2023.

Source: Al Jazeera