Jerusalem, Israel – Web Desk: European foreign ministers have expressed deep concern over a proposed death penalty bill in Israel, which would allow execution or life imprisonment for violent acts committed either intentionally or accidentally by any Israeli citizen.
Human rights groups have warned that the bill could be disproportionately applied against Palestinians, heightening fears of discriminatory enforcement.
The legislation, introduced by far-right lawmakers, passed its first reading in November and is now expected to be presented for final voting in the Knesset.
Foreign ministers from United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy released a joint statement expressing that the bill increases the risk of immediate implementation of capital punishment in Israel.
“We are particularly concerned about the inherently discriminatory nature of this bill,” the statement read. “Its approval would weaken Israel’s commitment to democratic principles.”
Human rights organizations have urged the Israeli government to reconsider the bill, highlighting potential violations of international law and the risk of escalating tensions in the region.
