(MENAFN) The Israeli Knesset on Monday passed in its first reading a bill that would authorize the execution of Palestinian prisoners.

According to reports, the legislation was approved by a vote of 39 in favor and 16 against out of 120 members. The session saw a tense exchange between Arab lawmaker Ayman Odeh and far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, nearly escalating into a physical confrontation.

The bill, proposed by Ben-Gvir’s far-right Jewish Power party, was referred to Knesset committees ahead of its second and third readings, which are required for final passage.

The draft law states that “any person who intentionally or through recklessness causes the death of an Israeli citizen, when motivated by racism, hatred, or intent to harm Israel, shall face the death penalty,” and prohibits any reduction of the sentence once imposed.

Ben-Gvir celebrated the vote on the social media platform X, writing: “Jewish Power is making history. We promised and delivered. The death penalty law for terrorists has passed its first reading.”

Human rights organizations have long criticized the proposed legislation, warning that it disproportionately targets Palestinians and reinforces systemic discrimination.

The vote comes amid ongoing repercussions from Israel’s two-year military campaign in Gaza, which began in October 2023, as well as lethal operations across the occupied West Bank.

Reports indicate that over 10,000 Palestinians — including women and children — are currently held in Israeli prisons, where many face torture, malnutrition, and medical neglect, leading to numerous deaths, according to both Israeli and Palestinian human rights groups.

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