What It’s About
The Knesset, Israel’s legislative body, approved a new law mandating the deduction of legal defense fees for Hamas detainees from funds Israel transfers to the Palestinian Authority (PA).
Proposed by Likud MK Simcha Rothman, the legislation passed its second and third readings with a vote count of 26 in favor and four opposed. This marks a significant legislative decision responding to the events of October 7 and subsequent security measures.
Why It Matters
This law is seen as rectifying a “moral injustice” to Israeli citizens, according to MK Rothman, by ensuring that Israeli taxpayers are not responsible for the legal costs of terrorists involved in deadly attacks.
The bill shifts financial responsibility for the legal representation of Hamas members, accused or convicted in connection with October 7, away from Israeli public funds, insisting these costs will now be drawn from the financial support made to the PA.
The Big Picture
Rothman emphasizes it is “unjustifiable” for Israelis to fund the legal defense of those implicated in causing grievous harm to their nation, especially when many remain coping with loss from such attacks.
The law reflects bipartisan agreement within the Israeli government and a collective stance against terrorism while promoting justice for victims of the attacks.
This story was first published on jpost.com.