Knesset votes on bill to stiffen punishment for stone-throwers

The winter session of the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, opens on Monday, with the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clinging to the smallest possible majority.

The ruling coalition has 61 of the Knesset’s 120 seats, but hopes to push through tough new security legislation.

Among the first bills up for discussion in a session likely to be dominated by security issues is a motion to stiffen penalties for Palestinians accused of throwing stones.

Those convicted already face sentences of up to 20 years if they are deemed to have intended serious injury by throwing stones at cars.

The passing of that bill in July led to intense criticism from activists who complained that it “contradicts the most basic rule: that the punishment fit the offence”.

Israeli ministers on Sunday approved a fresh bill that would further increase the punishments that can be given to Palestinians convicted of stone throwing.

The bill, proposed by Justice Minister with strong backing from Netanyahu, would see adults liable to minimum four-year prison sentences for rock throwing.

Under the proposed bill, the parents of minors convicted of the same crime could have their benefits stopped for the period in which their child is imprisoned.

Parents of minors can also be fined.

Since the bill received ministerial approval on Sunday, it only needs to be voted up by the Knesset before passing into law.