Syrians Protest Israeli Law on Palestinian Executions

Thousands of Syrians protested across major cities on Friday, condemning a new Israeli law that authorizes the execution of Palestinian prisoners convicted of deadly attacks against Israelis. The demonstrations, which spread from Damascus to regions including Daraa, Quneitra, Aleppo, Latakia, Homs and Idlib, also highlighted Israel's occupation of southern Syrian territory near the Golan Heights. Protesters in Palestinian refugee camps such as Yarmouk and Khan al-Sheikh joined the marches, vigils and student rallies, waving Palestinian and Syrian flags while chanting slogans like "With our souls, with our blood, we will redeem you, Palestine" and demanding freedom for Palestinian prisoners.

The law, passed by the Israeli Knesset on March 30, mandates hanging as the default sentence for Palestinians convicted in military courts of terrorism-related killings, with executions required within 90 days and no option for pardons. Observers note that the legislation applies a dual legal standard, offering judges discretion for Israeli citizens convicted of similar offenses, making it unlikely for any Israeli to face execution. It has drawn widespread international criticism for its...