Hamas calls Knesset’s death penalty bill manifestation of 'Israel’s' “ugly fascist face”

Hamas strongly condemned the 'Israeli' Knesset’s advancement of a bill that would impose mandatory death sentences on Palestinian detainees accused of carrying out “terrorist” attacks, describing it as a manifestation of 'Israel’s' “ugly fascist face” and a clear violation of international law.

“The Israeli Knesset’s decision to impose mandatory death sentences on Palestinian prisoners reflects the apartheid and fascist nature of the occupation,” the statement said. “It is time for the international community to intervene and protect the lives and rights of Palestinian detainees.”

Read more: 'Israel' advances death penalty bill for Palestinian detainees, with Netanyahu support

In a statement, the group called the legislation, recently approved by the Knesset’s National Security Committee and slated for a preliminary reading, a “brutal crime” and an escalation in 'Israel’s' ongoing breaches of the Third Geneva Convention and international humanitarian law.

Hamas urged the United Nations, the international community, and relevant human rights and humanitarian organizations to take immediate action to halt what it described as “this savage act.” The statement also called for international committees to inspect 'Israeli' detention facilities, monitor conditions for Palestinian detainees, and expose atrocities allegedly committed under the supervision of 'Israeli' authorities.

The movement specifically demanded the immediate release of Palestinian detainees, citing reports of severe abuse, including incidents revealed in recent videos from the Sde Teiman detention center.

The proposed bill, championed by far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and backed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, would allow 'Israeli' courts to impose the death penalty on Palestinians convicted of “nationalistically motivated murders” of 'Israeli' citizens, while exempting 'Israeli' nationals who kill Palestinians.