Israel to make 'death by hanging' default sentence for Palestinian militants

The measure, which would likely not apply to Jews convicted of similar crimes, was widely criticized by the international community and human rights groups.

Published: March 31, 2026 2:30am

Israel’s parliament passed a law that would make execution by hanging the default sentence for Palestinians convicted of militant attacks. 

But it is unlikely to ever apply to Jewish extremists convicted of similar crimes. 

The measure has drawn harsh criticism from the international community and human rights groups has inhumane and discriminatory. 

“This law further entrenches Israel’s violation of racial segregation and apartheid,” the UN Human Rights Office said in a statement.

Prime Minister Bejamin Netanyahu has been pushing for the law for more than a year.

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