Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s far-right Minister of National Security, has revealed plans for a facility where Palestinians convicted of terrorism will be executed by hanging. This announcement follows the recent passage of a law allowing the death penalty, which critics note does not apply to Jewish extremists convicted of similar crimes.
In a video shared via social media, Ben-Gvir proudly showcased the construction of the gallows, stating, “This is where terrorists will be executed.” The video featured him pointing at the foundations of the site, which reportedly lies near a prison.
Israeli media have published images depicting significant construction activity in a remote area, believed to be the new execution site. Ben-Gvir asserted, “We have kept our promise to worsen the detention conditions for terrorists. We have enacted the death penalty law for terrorists, and now the execution site is coming to fruition.”
The death penalty law, recently adopted by the Knesset with a vote of 62 in favor and 48 against, stipulates that military courts must impose capital punishment unless special circumstances warrant life imprisonment. However, the law explicitly protects Jewish citizens from the death penalty by only applying it to those committing crimes intending to negate the existence of the Israeli state.
Ben-Gvir, who has a history of extremist remarks and has faced international sanctions, is one of the primary advocates for this controversial legislation. His comments and actions have drawn widespread condemnation, including from the French and Irish governments. Just days ago, he proposed executing 30 to 40 Palestinians nightly, stating, “There are people there who do not deserve to live… They are not even human.” These remarks have elicited outrage from global leaders, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres labeling them as “appalling” and “dangerous.”
International criticism has mounted since the law’s enactment, with organizations like Amnesty International denouncing it for undermining fundamental rights and perpetuating discriminatory practices against Palestinians. The facility’s construction and Ben-Gvir’s comments intensify scrutiny on Israel’s policies amid calls for accountability.
This situation unfolds as Israel faces increasing international pressure and backlash over its actions in occupied territories, including recent plans for settlement expansions that threaten to further divide the West Bank from East Jerusalem.
