Al-Azhar Condemns Israeli Law Allowing Execution of Palestinian Prisoners, Urges International Action

Hamas militias surrender to Israeli forces in Gaza. (Source: Israel Defense Forces)

Al-Azhar, the highest Sunni Islamic institution in Egypt, on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the failure of the international legal system to address the enactment of laws by Israel that allow the execution of Palestinian prisoners.

This was conveyed in a statement issued a day after the Israeli Knesset passed a law allowing the execution of Palestinian prisoners by a vote of 62 to 48, with one abstention, amid cheers from right-wing parties.

Al-Azhar said. they "deeply regret and express deep disappointment at the collapse of the international legal system and its inability to face the enactment of the bill by the Israeli occupation to impose the death penalty on Palestinian prisoners and detainees," quoted from WAFA (31/3).

Furthermore, Al-Azhar emphasized, "this crime once again reveals the bloody face of this occupation, which is not satisfied with the ongoing crimes but seeks to legalize its criminality and murder, giving it false and blatant legal protection."

Al-Azhar stressed "the categorical rejection of all actions or decisions issued by the occupation to legitimize the killing of Palestinian citizens."

"This decision is nothing but a desperate attempt by the occupation to legitimize the killing, which does not change its original nature; it reflects the state of barbarism and moral decline, as well as a violation of all human values," he said.

In this regard, Al-Azhar called on the international community and human rights organizations to "assume their moral and legal responsibilities regarding actions that blatantly disregard international laws and norms."

Al-Azhar urged immediate action to stop the implementation of the law, hold those responsible accountable, and protect the lives of civilians.