Israeli parliament passes death penalty bill for Palestinians

Israel's parliament has passed a controversial bill allowing the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of deadly attacks. The law, passed on Monday, has already drawn criticism as discriminatory and is expected to be challenged in court.

The bill was supported by 62 lawmakers, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir was the primary sponsor. Before the vote, he wore a pin symbolising a noose and described the bill's passage as a 'historic' step on social media.

Under the law, Palestinians living in the occupied West Bank will face trial in Israeli military courts. Those convicted of deadly attacks will face the death penalty as the primary punishment, though exceptional cases may see the sentence reduced to life imprisonment.

Hanging has been designated as the method of execution. The sentence is to be carried out within 90 days, though it can be postponed for up to 180 days under special circumstances.