Israel passes law mandating death penalty for terrorists in final Knesset vote with Netanyahu’s support

The measure cleared its final readings in the Knesset plenum by a vote of 62-48, with one lawmaker abstaining.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

Israel’s parliament approved legislation Monday evening establishing the death penalty for terrorists, with backers saying the move is aimed at deterring attacks and delivering justice for victims, The Jerusalem Post reported.

The measure cleared its final readings in the Knesset plenum by a vote of 62-48, with one lawmaker abstaining, reflecting a firm majority in support alongside significant opposition.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu entered the chamber to cast his vote in favor, publicly aligning himself with the proposal during its final passage.

The initiative was introduced by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s Otzma Yehudit Party, which has advocated for stricter punitive measures in response to terrorism.

Supporters of the bill say the policy establishes capital punishment for those convicted of terrorist acts and is intended to strengthen Israel’s response framework.

They maintain that the threat of such a penalty could discourage future attacks while providing what they describe as a measure of justice for victims of terrorism.

The vote concluded the legislative process after the bill advanced through earlier stages, culminating in its approval by the full plenum on Monday night.

The outcome highlighted divisions within the legislature, with dozens of lawmakers opposing the measure even as it secured passage with a clear majority.

Netanyahu’s decision to attend the vote and support the legislation emphasized its political weight, as the prime minister joined proponents at a pivotal moment in the process.

The law marks a central policy push by Ben-Gvir’s party, which has prioritized tougher legal consequences for terrorism as part of its broader agenda.