The execution of death penalties in Gaza and Nablus, and issuing new ones in Bethlehem

Yesterday, 13/1/2001, the executive authority of the Palestinian National Authority implemented death sentences against two Palestinians.
The sentences were handed down by the State Security Court.
Yasir Arafat, the Palestinian President, ratified the court's decisions.
On 11/1/2001, the State Security Court in Gaza sentenced Majdy Mohammad Ahmad Makawy, a 27- year old resident of Rafah, to death.
On 7/12/2000, the State Security Court in Nablus sentenced Allan Bany Oudah, a 24- year old resident of Jenin, to death.
Both of them were found guilty of treason, collaboration, and provision of information to Israeli Security Services.
Such information led to the killing/ or arresting of Palestinian activists during the last few weeks.
Yesterday, the State Security Court in Bethlehem sentenced two Palestinians to death.
These were found guilty of treason, collaboration, and provision of information to Israeli Security Services.
Such information led to the killing or arresting of Palestinian activists.
The ones who were sentenced to death were, Mohamad Dhaifallah Alkhateeb Nawadrah, and Husam Addeen Mousa Hmaid (Alasleeny).
In the light of this, we at AL-MEZAN Center for Human Rights, assert the following: The Israeli Aggressions against the Palestinian civilians, including the extra- judicial killings, constitute war crimes.
Those who committed these crimes or ordered them to be committed should be brought before court.
The Palestinian National Authority should search and punish the betrayers, according to legal procedures that guarantee just trials.
This will contribute in reinforcing the rule of the law.
In light of the current situation, the death penalty has been proved to be an ineffective measure against crime.
END