ISTANBUL
China on Friday urged Israel against “discrimination” as well as “confrontation” over a controversial law that imposes the death penalty on Palestinian prisoners, which has triggered global condemnation.
“All legislation must conform to legal principles, such as the principle of legality, fairness and justice and must not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, nationality or political view,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning.
Mao was responding to a question by Anadolu about a new controversial law passed by the Israeli parliament last Monday with a vote of 62-48. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also voted in its support.
Under the law, executions will be carried out by hanging, conducted by prison guards appointed by the Israeli Prison Service. Those involved will have anonymity and legal immunity.
However, Mao said the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people “must be respected and protected.”
“Actions that escalate tensions and exacerbate confrontation must stop,” Mao added.