Several Islamic countries and organisations have strongly condemned Israel’s newly approved death penalty law, describing it as discriminatory and a violation of international law.
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) said the law, which allows the execution of Palestinian detainees, is “dangerous, unprecedented and a violation of international humanitarian law.”
In a separate statement, the OIC’s human rights body described the measure as “a discriminatory law” that breaches global human rights standards, including the right to life and fair trial.
The law, passed by Israel’s parliament, mandates the death penalty by hanging for Palestinians convicted of deadly attacks, particularly in military courts.
Critics say it effectively targets Palestinians and not Israeli citizens.
A joint statement by several Muslim-majority countries, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan, described the law as a “dangerous escalation” that could further inflame tensions in the region.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas also condemned the move, calling it a violation of international law and an attempt to intimidate Palestinians.
The United Nations has also weighed in, urging Israel to repeal the law.
UN human rights chief Volker Türk said it is “deeply discriminatory” and raises serious concerns about due process.
The development comes amid ongoing conflict and heightened global scrutiny of Israel’s policies toward Palestinians and their current war with Iran.
