Video Shows Gallows Construction
Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's far-right security chief, has sparked controversy by posting a video on social media platforms, which has since been removed, showcasing the construction of a gallows facility. This site is intended for the execution of Palestinians found guilty of terrorism. Ben-Gvir proudly displays the foundations, claiming it will be the place where terrorists face their fate. The video also reveals viewing booths for victims' families to witness the executions.[S1][S4]
Itamar Ben-Gvir, the far-right leader of Otzma Yehudit, has advocated for stricter treatment of Palestinian inmates. He marked his 50th birthday in May with a cake featuring a noose made of icing. This comes after the recent enactment of the 'Death Penalty for Terrorists Law', which mandates hanging as the standard punishment for Palestinians found guilty of deadly attacks in military trials, unless exceptional circumstances warrant life imprisonment.[S1][S3]
Discriminatory Law Sparks Outrage
A controversial law has been enacted in Israel, specifically targeting murder cases with the intention of denying Israel's statehood. This law shields Jewish citizens from capital punishment, while critics argue it unfairly exposes Palestinians to the death penalty for comparable offenses committed by Jewish extremists. The Knesset approved the law with 62 votes in favor and 48 against, sparking international outrage. Amnesty International's Erika Guevara-Rosas has condemned it, stating that it undermines essential protections and reinforces Israel's apartheid system.[S1][S3]
Human rights groups have strongly criticized the inclusion of viewing platforms for executions. Asim Qureshi, research director at CAGE International, called it "another example of the depravity" embedded in Israeli politics, which he said has "completely dehumanised Palestinian life." An op-ed in the conservative Jerusalem Post argued the facility would "hand Israel's enemies ammunition," noting that "reasonable people do not glorify executions."[S3]
International Condemnation and Sanctions
Itamar Ben-Gvir's actions have led to sanctions from the UK, France, and Ireland. He has shockingly suggested killing 30 to 40 individuals in Gaza each night, claiming some don't deserve life. French minister Jean-Noël Barrot deemed his words unacceptable and inhumane. German chancellor Friedrich Merz also condemned Ben-Gvir's statements as inhumane and illegal under international law. UN Secretary General António Guterres expressed his dismay, calling the comments appalling, outrageous, dehumanizing, and dangerous.[S1]
The video emerged amid broader international criticism of Israel's actions, including new tenders for the E1 settlement block outside Jerusalem, which UK foreign secretary Ed Miliband denounced as an "unacceptable and destructive act." He summoned Israel's charge d'affaires in protest. Ben-Gvir has also promised a former Israeli hostage that he would allow him to execute Palestinians, saying it would be "one of my greatest dreams." Leftist lawmaker Ofer Cassif called Ben-Gvir a "criminal thug" and predicted he would be ousted from government.[S1][S3][S5]
