Story perspectives

EU Calls Israel's Death Penalty Law "Discriminatory"

4/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

Anouar El Anouni, EU spokesperson, described Israel's new death penalty law as a "clear step backwards" and said it is discriminatory.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez labeled the law a move toward apartheid, creating unequal justice for Palestinians.
The law allows executions without unanimous court decisions and restricts legal consultations to video communication, sparking protests in Palestinian cities and leading the Israeli Supreme Court to review petitions challenging the law.

History

Historical Context

In 1979, Israel enacted the "Death Penalty Law," permitting capital punishment for specific crimes amid ongoing tensions with Palestinians. This law has faced criticism, particularly from Israeli Arabs, with 60% opposing it. Today, leaders like Anouar El Anouni and Pedro Sánchez raise concerns about apartheid-like conditions linked to this legislation, highlighting its role in the enduring conflict and calls for equitable justice.

1 of 2

Story summary

Anouar El Anouni, EU spokesperson, described Israel's new death penalty law as a "clear step backwards" and said it is discriminatory.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez labeled the law a move toward apartheid, creating unequal justice for Palestinians.
The law allows executions without unanimous court decisions and restricts legal consultations to video communication, sparking protests in Palestinian cities and leading the Israeli Supreme Court to review petitions challenging the law.

1 / 2