Debate Over Death Penalty in Israel Intensifies Amid Prisoner Releases
Israel’s recent agreement with Hamas to release Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Israeli hostages has reignited discussions on capital punishment for convicted terrorists. As Keren Setton reports, many Israelis feel uneasy about freeing prisoners who have committed deadly attacks, especially as some have resumed militant activities after previous releases. Right-wing politicians and victims’ families argue that executing terrorists would serve as a deterrent, preventing future attacks and hostage negotiations.
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Although Israeli law allows the death penalty for certain crimes, including treason and genocide, it has been used only twice, including a case in which the executed man was posthumously exonerated. Former Judge Haran Feinstein points out that capital punishment has never been implemented against Palestinian terrorists due to concerns that Israel’s enemies would retaliate by executing hostages. Lawmakers like Limor Sonn Har Melech insist that without the death penalty, Israel’s enemies see kidnapping and attacks as viable tactics.
Setton provides an in-depth look at the legal, political, and moral complexities surrounding the issue. Read the full article for more on this controversial issue.
