Coalition Chairman Backs Death Penalty for Terrorists

Ophir Katz, the coalition chairman, has publicly supported National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's proposed law for the death penalty for terrorists. Katz stated on Tuesday that the recent attack in the Benjamin region, which resulted in the death of Natanel Shachron, fits the criteria outlined in the "Otzma Yehudit" (Jewish Power) party's legislation. Katz emphasized the need to combat "criminal terrorists" and viewed the death penalty as a tool for this fight. He expressed hope that the High Court of Justice would not obstruct the legislative will, stating, "Power must be met with even more power."

Ben-Gvir had raised the issue of the death penalty during a limited discussion on the security situation in Judea and Samaria shortly before Yom Kippur. He argued that the Benjamin attack was the first instance meeting the law's criteria. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly expressed interest and sought responses from the IDF regarding the feasibility of implementing the law in this specific case. IDF representatives present at the discussion indicated no operational objections, though the Military Advocate General did not participate in that initial conversation.

Following these developments, it was decided that the Security Cabinet would convene for another professional meeting, this time including the Military Advocate General, to further examine the handling and implementation of the death penalty law.