Kathmandu— Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced the construction of an execution facility designed to hang Palestinian prisoners convicted on terrorism charges, revealing the site in central Israel on Tuesday. The complex will not only house an execution chamber but also viewing booths for victims’ families to witness the hangings, a practice Ben-Gvir described as customary in many countries. This development follows the passage of the Death Penalty for Terrorists Law in March, championed by Ben-Gvir's Otzma Yehudit party, which mandates capital punishment for those convicted of attacks aimed at ending Israel’s existence and requires executions within 90 days with no right to appeal.

Controversial New Legislation

The Death Penalty for Terrorists Law has faced widespread criticism due to concerns over discrimination and due process. Critics argue the law effectively exempts Jewish Israelis, making it applicable almost exclusively to Palestinians. UN human rights experts have warned that hanging is incompatible with the prohibition of torture, while Israeli rights group B’Tselem contends the method contributes to the dehumanization of Palestinians.

Minister's Inflammatory Rhetoric

Itamar Ben-Gvir, known for his inflammatory rhetoric toward Palestinians and past incitement to violence, proudly presented the construction site in a partly blurred video. He stated, “We are making history. Terrorists deserve only one thing – death by hanging.” Ben-Gvir has previously advocated for harsh treatment of Palestinian prisoners and made controversial statements denying their national identity.

Legal Challenges and Human Rights Concerns

The new law is currently being challenged in the Israeli Supreme Court, with petitioners arguing it is unconstitutional. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk has called the legislation “deeply discriminatory” and a violation of international law. Israel previously reserved capital punishment for exceptional cases like treason and war crimes, with only two executions carried out since its founding.

Prison Conditions and Regional Instability

Israel currently holds approximately 9,400 Palestinian prisoners, including women and minors, according to reports from the Palestinian Prisoner Society. Rights groups have consistently reported mistreatment within Israeli prisons, alleging abuse, torture, and denial of medical care. This development occurs amid ongoing near-daily raids by the Israeli military in the West Bank and Gaza, as well as continued settler violence against Palestinians, leading the UN to warn of a critical “breaking point” in the region.

No Palestinian prisoners have yet been sentenced to death under the new law, but its implementation is expected to further exacerbate tensions in the already volatile region.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.