OIC Human Rights Commission Rejects Israeli Death Penalty Legislation For Palestinian Prisoners

The Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has expressed strong disapproval of a proposed Israeli law. This legislation aims to impose the death penalty on Palestinian prisoners, which the IPHRC views as a clear violation of international human rights and humanitarian law. They argue it undermines justice and human dignity.

The IPHRC highlighted that this proposed law would institutionalise collective punishment. It seeks to legitimise executing Palestinian detainees under prolonged occupation. Such actions, according to the commission, breach the Fourth Geneva Convention and violate the right to life and fair trial standards guaranteed to all individuals without discrimination.

The commission has urged the international community, including UN human rights mechanisms and High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions, to act decisively. They call for urgent measures to prevent Israel from adopting this legislation and ensure accountability for systematic violations against Palestinians.

Adopting such a law would escalate Israel's punitive policies, warns the IPHRC. These policies already involve arbitrary detention, torture, and mistreatment of Palestinian prisoners, including women and children. The commission believes this deepens unlawful occupation and hinders peace prospects.

The IPHRC reaffirmed its steadfast support for Palestinian rights, particularly self-determination, freedom, and dignity. They urge all relevant parties to intensify legal and diplomatic efforts to uphold international law and protect human life's sanctity.

This controversial legislation is seen as a grave assault on fundamental justice principles by the IPHRC. They stress that it contradicts international standards meant to ensure fair trials for everyone without discrimination.

With inputs from SPA