Israel’s death penalty law sparks global outcry.

Ben-Gvir’s gallows plan targets only Palestinians convicted of terrorism.

Israel’s far-right national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, has ignited fresh controversy after unveiling plans for a gallows site intended to execute Palestinians convicted of terrorism. In a video shared on his party’s official social media account, Ben-Gvir proudly pointed to the construction site, declaring it would serve as the place where “terrorists will be executed.”

The announcement follows the Knesset’s passage of the Death Penalty for Terrorists law in March 2026, which mandates death by hanging for Palestinians found guilty of deadly attacks. The law is highly contentious, as it applies exclusively to Palestinians and excludes Jewish extremists convicted of similar crimes. Military courts must impose capital punishment unless exceptional circumstances justify life imprisonment.

Ben-Gvir, a long-time advocate of harsher measures against Palestinian prisoners, has openly celebrated the legislation. He boasted that his promise to worsen prison conditions and push through the death penalty had been fulfilled. Photographs published in Israeli media show construction underway near a prison, with reports suggesting the facility will include viewing booths for victims’ families to witness executions.

The minister’s actions have drawn sharp criticism both domestically and internationally. Ben-Gvir himself has a history of convictions for incitement to racism and support for the banned extremist Kach movement founded by Meir Kahane. His Otzma Yehudit party has consistently campaigned for punitive measures against Palestinians, often described by critics as degrading and discriminatory.

International backlash has been swift. France, Ireland, and the United Kingdom imposed sanctions on Ben-Gvir last year after he advocated for nightly punitive killings in Gaza. His latest move has reignited concerns about Israel’s human rights record and the erosion of democratic norms. Human rights organizations argue that the selective application of the death penalty undermines the principle of equal justice and risks deepening tensions in the region.

Ben-Gvir’s penchant for symbolism has also raised eyebrows. Earlier this year, he celebrated his 50th birthday with a cake decorated with a noose, reinforcing his fixation on executions. In May, he posted footage of Gaza activists kneeling with their hands bound after Israel intercepted an aid flotilla, further fuelling accusations of abuse and humiliation.

Israel’s embrace of capital punishment for terrorism marks a rare expansion of the death penalty within a democratic state. While supporters claim it will deter attacks, critics warn it entrenches systemic bias and risks inflaming an already volatile conflict.