Ben-Gvir proposes death penalty for Palestinian prisoner Qadri Smara

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has called for the execution of Palestinian prisoner Qadri Smara during a high-level security meeting chaired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Smara is accused by Israeli authorities of a shooting near the Hilmiye settlement northwest of Ramallah that resulted in a fatality.

Ben-Gvir asserted that Smara’s case meets the specific criteria established by recently passed legislation regarding the death penalty. During the meeting, Netanyahu requested a position from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on the feasibility of applying the sentence. Military representatives reportedly stated they see no obstacle to implementing the law in this instance.

Because the military prosecutor did not attend the initial meeting, officials decided to hold a follow-up professional discussion involving the military advocate general to examine the legal aspects of the proposed execution.

In the West Bank, Israeli forces have conducted military operations in the town of Biddu, Smara’s hometown, involving searches, arrests, and interrogations. Reports indicate that Smara’s home was measured, suggesting potential demolition proceedings.