DaysofPal- The European Union has expressed strong opposition to the death penalty in all circumstances, warning of serious consequences following the approval of a controversial law by the Knesset allowing its use against Palestinian prisoners.
In a statement issued on Tuesday on behalf of the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, the bloc said that Israel had long maintained a de facto moratorium on executions. It described the adoption of the new law as a significant step backward from that practice and from previously stated commitments.
The EU also raised concerns about what it described as the discriminatory nature of the legislation. It urged Israel to comply with international law and uphold democratic principles in line with the provisions of its partnership agreement with the bloc.
The statement emphasized that capital punishment constitutes a clear violation of the right to life. It stressed that its implementation cannot occur without breaching the absolute prohibition on torture and cruel or degrading treatment.
EU officials further noted that there is no credible evidence showing that the death penalty serves as an effective deterrent. The bloc reaffirmed its long-standing position rejecting capital punishment under all circumstances, calling on Israel to reconsider the legislation.
Separately, the European Commission strongly criticized the new Israeli law, warning that it effectively makes the death penalty the default punishment for Palestinians convicted of deadly attacks.
A spokesperson for the commission said the legislation raises serious concern within the EU, describing its implementation, combined with what was called its discriminatory nature, as a clear step backward.
The spokesperson added that the measure represents a negative direction regarding Israel’s commitments to human rights, confirming that the commission has raised the issue directly with Israeli authorities.
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