The European Commission has strongly criticized a new Israeli law that would make the death penalty the default sentence for Palestinians convicted of lethal terrorist attacks.
"The death penalty bill in Israel is very concerning to us in the EU," a commission spokesman said on Tuesday.
Under the law, Palestinians convicted of terrorist-motivated murder by military courts in the occupied territories would face the death penalty, which judges are required to impose. The Israeli parliament approved the measure on Monday by a narrow majority.
"This is a clear step backwards, the introduction of the death penalty together with the discriminatory nature of the law," the spokesman said.
"This is a clear negative trend in terms of Israel's obligation vis-à-vis respect of human rights."
The commission has engaged with Israel on the bill, the spokesman said.
Inside Kathy Hilton’s Christmas pajama party: caviar bumps, champagne vending machines and a mansion full of Housewives- Timex Gives Its Classic Affordable Field Watch a Tactical, Milspec Makeover
- How HIV/AIDS got its name − the words Americans used for the crisis were steeped in science, stigma and religious language
- How much should a kid's birthday party cost? One mom spent $190 for pizza and ice cream at a park. Another paid $2K for a playspace and goodie bags.
- Geminid meteor shower 2025 peaks next week. Here's what you need to know about this year's best meteor shower
- RFK Jr. says he's following 'gold standard' science. Here's what to know
- How we came to be: Scientists get first look at the evolution of early complex animals
- High Court weighs Assenheim appeal over release of Feldstein interview raw footage
- Iran, Hezbollah fire rockets at Israel during Passover celebrations
