Eight Muslim-majority nations have issued a joint statement condemning a new Israeli law that allows for the death penalty in terrorism cases. The countries—Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—warned the legislation is "dangerous" and risks escalating regional tensions.
The law, passed by the Israeli Knesset in March 2024, permits civilian courts to impose the death penalty on individuals convicted of terrorism resulting in death. The measure was championed by far-right members of the governing coalition. The joint statement from the eight nations, released through diplomatic channels, emphasized the "urgent need to refrain from measures" that could fuel conflict and undermine peace efforts.
International human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have also criticized the law, arguing it violates the fundamental right to life. Israel has not carried out a civilian execution since 1962, when Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann was hanged. The Israeli government maintains the law is a necessary deterrent against deadly terrorist attacks.
