PES condemns Israeli death penalty law targeting Palestinians

The Party of European Socialists (PES) strongly condemns the adoption of legislation by the Israeli parliament, put forward by far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, introducing a death penalty framework that requires military courts in the West Bank to impose the death penalty for the murder of Israelis in "acts of terrorism."

This legislation raises serious concerns regarding its compatibility with international human rights standards and contradicts international treaties to which Israel is a signatory, including the Geneva Convention, by challenging the prohibition of cruel, inhuman, or degrading punishment.

While the law formally allows for broader application, it is clearly designed to target Palestinians, while setting conditions that make it highly unlikely to be applied to violence committed by Israelis. This accounts for systemic unequal treatment and undermines the fundamental principle of equality before the law.

Moreover, the law allows courts to impose the death penalty even without a request from the prosecution and removes the safeguard of unanimous judicial agreement. As pointed out by some Human rights associations, this creates a concerning dynamic in which the gravest punishment may become easier to apply.

PES urges the Israeli authorities to immediately repeal this law and to fully comply with their obligations under international law, ensuring respect for fundamental rights. This law could contravene Israel's commitment to democratic principles and international law enshrined in the EU-Israel Association Agreement.

Stefan Löfven, President of the PES, said:

"Justice cannot be selective, and human rights cannot depend on identity. A law that would apply differently depending on who youare undermines the very foundations of democracy and the rule of law. This decision must be reversed without delay."

In light of these developments, PES reiterates its call for the European Union to take concrete action, including taking further steps towards the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, until full compliance with international law and human rights standards is ensured.

We stand with all those fighting for justice, equality, and dignity. Because a rules-based international order only matters if it is defended consistently.

The PES stands with all those who defend justice, equality and human dignity, and stresses that a rules-based international order must be upheld consistently without exception.