Israeli Minister Smotrich Suggests Death Penalty for Jews Aiding Iran Under New Bill

Minister's Remarks During Cabinet Discussion

During a recent late-night security cabinet meeting, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich reportedly stated that a proposed death penalty bill for terrorism could extend to a Jew working on behalf of Iran against the State of Israel. The comments, leaked from the meeting, were reported by the Ynet news site and subsequently cited by other media outlets.

The discussion centered on the 'Death Penalty for Terrorists Law,' which has already passed its first reading in the Knesset. According to reports, Intelligence Minister Gila Gamliel questioned whether Jewish citizens could also be executed under the proposed legislation. In response, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, a staunch advocate for the bill, reportedly said, 'Whoever acts against the existence of the Jewish people.' Smotrich then added his specific clarification: 'Yes, a Jew that acts on behalf of Iran against the State of Israel can be executed.'

Details of the Proposed Legislation

The controversial bill, sponsored by MK Limor Son Har-Melech of Ben-Gvir's Otzma Yehudit party, passed its initial Knesset reading on November 10, 2025, with a vote of 39 in favor to 16 against. It seeks to amend Section 301A of Israel's Penal Law, 1977, by introducing a mandatory death penalty for individuals convicted of killings committed with the intent to 'harm the State of Israel and the revival of the Jewish people in its land.'

Key provisions of the bill, as reported, include:

• A mandatory death sentence for those convicted of 'nationalist-motivated' murder or terrorism.
• Application specifically to Palestinians convicted of killing Jewish individuals, according to critics.
• Executions to be carried out within 90 days of sentencing, potentially by lethal injection.
• Elimination of standard judicial review processes or appeals for those sentenced under its provisions.

Historically, Israel has rarely used capital punishment, with the only execution under civil law being that of Adolf Eichmann in 1962.

Debate and Implications

The bill has generated significant debate within Israel's political and security establishments. Shin Bet chief David Zini (also identified as Ronen Bar) reportedly described the death penalty as a 'highly deterrent tool.' However, a representative for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) indicated that while the military did not oppose the measure, it favored judicial discretion over a mandatory punishment. This distinction between mandatory and discretionary sentencing remains a central point of contention.

Critics, including human rights organizations, argue that the bill is discriminatory and primarily targets Palestinians, potentially leading to a 'racist legal system.' Smotrich's reported comments, however, suggest an intent by some proponents to apply the law broadly, even to Jewish citizens, if they are found to be collaborating with enemy states against Israel. The legislation now awaits further readings in the Knesset before it can become law.