That this House condemns the Knesset’s decision to approve its Penal Law in March 2026, which expands the use of the death penalty in both military and civilian courts; recognises that the law’s provisions will de facto apply exclusively to Palestinians; affirms that discriminating against Palestinians is inhumane and contravenes Israel's obligations under international law; believes that the passage of this law constitutes an affront to decency, fairness and the rule of law; further believes it was introduced with the main political aim of appeasing far-right Ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir; further recognises longstanding and grave concerns about the conduct of military courts in Israel, including the continuing practice of administrative detention without charge; welcomes the joint statement made by the UK, Australia, France, Germany, Italy and New Zealand which describes the de facto discriminatory character of the bill; calls on the UK Government to go further to condemn this discriminatory and inhumane legislation, including by summoning the Israeli Ambassador and calling for the revocation of the law; and further calls on the Government to show leadership in standing up for international law and securing progress towards a two-state solution, which is the only political settlement that can deliver peace, security and dignity for Palestinians and Israelis.
Signatories (30)
- Vikki Slade Sponsor
- Andrew George
- Neil Duncan-Jordan
- Wera Hobhouse
- Jon Trickett
- Wendy Chamberlain
- Brian Mathew
- Olly Glover
- Susan Murray
- Dr Danny Chambers
- Sorcha Eastwood
- Mr Alistair Carmichael
- Pippa Heylings
- Monica Harding
- Rachel Gilmour
- Liz Jarvis
- Charlotte Cane
- Edward Morello
- Sarah Dyke
- Mr Will Forster
- Ben Lake
- Liz Saville Roberts
- Ann Davies
- Llinos Medi
- Josh Babarinde
- Clive Jones
- Chris Law
- James MacCleary
- David Chadwick
- Manuela Perteghella