Lawmakers from the Otzma Yehudit party wore noose-shaped pins during a parliamentary hearing on a contentious bill seeking to introduce the death penalty for those convicted of deadly terror attacks. The pins, intended to symbolize support for the legislation, sparked outrage among opposition leaders and rights groups, who argued that the display damages Israel's international reputation and signals a dangerous shift in political rhetoric.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir defended the symbolism, stating it reflects a commitment to capital punishment for terrorists, and dismissed criticism from medical professionals and legal advisors. The bill, which passed its first reading in November, faces significant legal and ethical challenges, including concerns about its constitutionality, potential harm to judicial discretion, and conflict with international agreements.

Opponents highlighted the irreversible nature of the death penalty and warned against its mandatory application, particularly in cases involving Palestinians under military rule. The committee's legal counsel also questioned the bill's vague definitions and its exclusion of non-citizen victims, further complicating its implementation. Amid the debate, Ben Gvir expressed pride in harsher prison conditions for Palestinian detainees, despite reports of worsening health and safety in detention facilities.