The Missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah condemn the seven death sentences issued in the Gaza Strip on 19th February.

The Missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah recall their firm opposition under all circumstances to the use of capital punishment. Switzerland and the EU consider that abolition of the death penalty contributes to the protection of human dignity and the progressive development of human rights. It considers capital punishment to be cruel and inhuman, that it fails to provide deterrence to criminal behaviour, and represents an unacceptable denial of human dignity and integrity.

The de facto authorities in Gaza must refrain from carrying out any executions of prisoners and comply with the moratorium on executions put in place by the Palestinian Authority, pending abolition of the death penalty in line with the global trend.