Israeli doctors’ union rejects role in executing Palestinian prisoners
The Israeli doctors’ union has said that doctors are not allowed to take part in carrying out the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners. The statement was made during a meeting of the National Security Committee in the Knesset on Wednesday, which discussed applying the penalty and preparing the draft law for its second and third readings.
The union’s representative stressed that any medical involvement in executions goes against professional and ethical rules, confirming the union’s firm position against taking part in such procedures.
The representative was removed from the meeting after repeatedly insisting on the doctors’ refusal to participate in executions, saying that any medical role in these actions violates ethical and professional standards. His comments sparked tension in the room and led to his expulsion.
The Israeli National Security Minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, said he hopes the draft law on executing prisoners will be passed before the next elections.
During the same session, Knesset member for the Democrats Gilad Kariv criticised Ben Gvir, saying: “O Minister of tickling and baklava. You are a man with a long record of spilling Israeli and Jewish blood in the streets. You are a scoundrel.”
These exchanges highlight the deep tension and sharp political divisions inside the Knesset over the controversial draft law and its legal and humanitarian implications.
The draft law is part of the agreements reached in late 2022 to form the ruling coalition led by the Likud Party under Benjamin Netanyahu, together with the Jewish Power party (Otzma Yehudit) headed by Ben Gvir.
READ: Israeli media: Israel investigates “optimal way” to execute Palestinian prisoners