Case Explained: Al-Azhar slams Israeli death penalty law as “full-fledged crime” – Legal Perspective

 Al-Azhar, one of the highest authorities in Sunni Islam, has issued a strong condemnation of Israel’s approval of a law permitting the execution of Palestinian prisoners, describing the measure as a “full-fledged crime” and a clear violation of humanitarian values and international law.

In a statement released Wednesday, the Council of Senior Scholars at Al-Azhar expressed deep denunciation of the legislation, warning that it effectively legalizes the execution of Palestinians and institutionalizes what it characterized as ethnic cleansing.

The council stated that the law represents an attempt by Israeli authorities to provide a false legal framework for actions against the Palestinian people. According to the statement, such measures aim to legitimize practices that undermine basic legal principles and human rights protections.

Scholars at the institution emphasized that the move reflects a continuation of policies they say target civilians, including children, women, and the elderly, within a broader context of ongoing conflict.

The statement also warned that codifying such measures risks misleading global public opinion and could contribute to further instability in the region. It noted that continued international backing for Israeli policies may embolden actions that heighten tensions and deepen divisions.

Observers say the remarks reflect growing concern among religious and political institutions regarding the potential consequences of the law on regional dynamics.

Al-Azhar called on Arab and Muslim-majority countries to unify their positions and strengthen political and diplomatic efforts to address the issue. The council urged governments to take concrete steps to pressure for an end to the measures and to pursue accountability through international mechanisms.

Concluding its statement, the council stressed that such policies would not alter the broader reality of the Palestinian issue. It reaffirmed that the Palestinian cause remains central and that the status of Palestinian territories continues to be a matter of international concern.

The remarks from Al-Azhar add to a growing number of reactions from regional and international actors criticizing the controversial legislation and calling for renewed attention to developments affecting Palestinians. (ILKHA)