EU warns Israel's death penalty law is 'clear step backwards' on human rights

The EU has voiced strong concern over a recently approved death penalty bill in Israel, warning that the move represents a "clear step backward" in terms of human rights and democratic commitments. Speaking on the midday briefing on Tuesday, spokesperson Anouar El Anouni said the introduction of capital punishment is deeply troubling, particularly given what he described as the "discriminatory nature" of the legislation.

EU opposition

"The death penalty bill in Israel is very concerning to us in the EU. This is a clear step backwards, the introduction of the death penalty together with the discriminatory nature of the law," he said. He emphasized that the EU opposes the death penalty "in all cases and under all circumstances," framing it as a violation of the fundamental right to life.

Law details

Israel's Knesset passed the law Monday, making the death penalty the default punishment for Palestinians in the occupied West Bank convicted of lethal attacks against Israelis. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu voted in support of the law. Under the law, executions would be carried out by hanging by prison guards appointed by the Israeli Prison Service, with anonymity and legal immunity for those involved. The legislation also mandates transferring those sentenced to death to special detention facilities, restricts visits, and limits lawyer meetings to video communication.

Judicial concerns

The law allows courts to issue death sentences without a request from prosecutors and does not require a unanimous decision, permitting rulings by a simple majority. It also applies to military courts that handle cases involving Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and bars appeals once a death sentence is issued.

EU assessment

"Now this is a clear negative trend in terms of Israel's obligation vis-a-vis respect of human rights," El Anouni stressed. He noted that Israel has long maintained a de facto moratorium on executions and capital punishment sentencing, positioning itself as a regional example despite ongoing security challenges. El Anouni also confirmed that foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas continues to maintain regular contact with Israeli counterparts as part of ongoing diplomatic engagement.

Conflict context

The law's passage comes amid ongoing regional escalation following the US-Israeli offensive on Iran that began Feb. 28, which has killed over 1,340 people in Iran. Israel has also expanded its military operations in Lebanon, with over 1,200 killed since March 2, and continues daily ceasefire violations in Gaza.