Israeli parliament passes law enabling deportation of families of suspected ‘terrorists’

The Israeli Knesset has approved a controversial law enabling the deportation of family members of individuals accused of terrorist actions, even if they are Israeli citizens.

The legislation, passed by a 61-41 vote, allows the interior minister to deport immediate family members of attackers if they are believed to have known about an attack and failed to report it, or if they “expressed support” for a terrorist act or group.

The bill, sponsored by Likud party lawmaker Hanoch Milwidsky, grants the interior minister discretionary power to deport relatives to Gaza or other destinations.

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Before a deportation order is issued, suspects will have the opportunity to defend themselves at a hearing led by the interior minister. If deemed complicit, the minister has 14 days to authorize their deportation.

The law stipulates that deported individuals will retain their Israeli citizenship, a provision that has raised further debate.

Supporters argue the law strengthens national security, while critics contend it violates basic human rights and targets Palestinian families disproportionately.