Israel's parliament approved a controversial law that permits the deportation of family members of Palestinian attackers, including Israeli citizens, to Gaza or other locations. The legislation, backed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party and right-wing allies, passed with a 61-41 vote but is expected to face legal challenges.
The law targets Palestinian citizens of Israel and residents of annexed east Jerusalem who were aware of or expressed support for terrorist acts committed by their relatives. Those found guilty could be deported for 7 to 20 years to Gaza or elsewhere.
While the law's application in the West Bank remains uncertain, Israel has a history of demolishing homes of attackers in the region. Recent years have seen numerous stabbing, shooting, and car-ramming incidents by Palestinians against Israelis.
Dr. Eran Shamir-Borer, a researcher at the Israel Democracy Institute, believes the law contradicts Israel's fundamental values and is likely to be invalidated by the Supreme Court based on past deportation cases.
Israel gained control of Gaza, the West Bank, and east Jerusalem in the 1967 Mideast war, territories sought by Palestinians for their future state. Despite withdrawing from Gaza in 2005, Israel reoccupied parts following an attack by Hamas in 2023.
East Jerusalem was annexed by Israel, a move not recognized internationally. Palestinians in the area have residency rights but face challenges in obtaining citizenship. Palestinians constitute about 20% of Israel's population, holding citizenship and voting rights but experiencing discrimination.
The law has sparked debate over its constitutionality and alignment with Israel's principles, particularly concerning the treatment of Palestinian citizens and residents. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to raise complex legal and humanitarian issues.
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