BRUSSELS: The European Union has strongly criticised Israel’s decision to make death by hanging the default sentence for Palestinians convicted in military courts of deadly attacks.
A European Commission spokesperson described the new law as “very concerning” and “a clear step backwards.” Speaking at a news briefing on Tuesday, he said the move goes against Israel’s earlier position, its obligations under international law, and its commitment to democratic principles.
He added that the EU is calling on Israel to reconsider the decision.
The Israeli parliament passed the law on Monday. It fulfils a long-standing demand by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right coalition partners.
The spokesperson said the Commission has no immediate plans to announce any specific steps in response to the new legislation.
