Israel’s far-right minister Itamar Ben-Gvir sparked international concern by claiming that doctors had volunteered to carry out death sentences on Palestinian prisoners, despite ethical prohibitions from the Israeli medical association.
Ben-Gvir made the remarks during a Knesset hearing on a bill that would legalize executions for Palestinians convicted of deadly attacks. Members of his Jewish Power Party (Otzma Yehudit) wore yellow noose-shaped pins to signal support for the death penalty. Critics argue the move violates international law and medical ethics and could escalate violence against Palestinian detainees.
As of February 2026, the bill has passed its first reading in the Knesset but has not yet become law. It still requires second and third readings and committee approvals before it can be enacted. Despite this, authorities are reportedly preparing facilities and procedures to implement executions if the law passes.
The proposal has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights groups and medical organizations. International law prohibits executions that target individuals based on nationality or political affiliation, and medical professionals participating in executions would violate the Hippocratic oath. Rights advocates warn that the bill, if passed, would mark a dangerous escalation in Israel’s treatment of Palestinian prisoners.
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