Israeli Parliament Passes Death Penalty Bill for October 7 Attacks

The Israeli Knesset passed legislation on May 12, 2026 establishing a special military court to prosecute Palestinians accused of involvement in the October 7, 2023 attacks on southern Israel, allowing the death penalty for those convicted of genocide. The court can modify standard rules governing evidence, testimony and legal procedures. Roughly 300 Palestinians arrested after the attack remain in detention.

Death penalty legislation

• ▪The Israeli Knesset death penalty legislation states that individuals convicted of genocide under the new framework could face execution.
• ▪The Israeli Knesset death penalty bill was supported by both government and opposition lawmakers.
• ▪The Israeli Knesset passed legislation on May 12, 2026 allowing the death penalty for certain cases related to the October 7, 2023 attacks on southern Israel.

Special military court establishment

• ▪The Israeli special military court legislation permits the court to modify standard rules governing evidence, testimony and legal procedures.
• ▪The Israeli Knesset passed legislation on May 12, 2026 establishing a special military court to prosecute Palestinians accused of involvement in the October 7, 2023 attacks on southern Israel.
• ▪Roughly 300 Palestinians arrested by Israeli forces after the October 7, 2023 attack remain in detention.

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