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What to know about Israel's controversial death penalty bill

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Emily Gordine
March 30, 2026

Israeli lawmakers are set to vote on a controversial bill mandating the death penalty for acts of terrorism. The legislation was introduced by Israel's far-right government as a reaction to the October 7 terror attacks.

Israel's far-right lawmakers are advancing a death penalty bill that would apply almost exclusively to Palestinians. The proposal, driven by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, targets terror convictions but excludes Israeli settlers. Critics warn it violates human rights, entrenches inequality and extends Israeli control over occupied territories. The bill faces strong domestic and international opposition.

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