Lebanon moves closer to ending capital punishment, a first for the Arab world

Lebanon’s parliament has taken a significant step toward

Lebanon’s parliament has taken a significant step toward abolishing the death penalty, a move that would make it the first Arab nation to do so. A draft law introduced this week proposes replacing executions with life imprisonment and hard labor as the maximum punishment.

The legislation, if passed, would mark a historic shift in a region where capital punishment remains widely practiced. Advocacy groups have long campaigned for abolition in Lebanon, citing concerns over wrongful convictions and the irreversible nature of the penalty.

The proposal now heads to committee review before a full parliamentary vote. Supporters say the change reflects growing global momentum against the death penalty, while opponents argue it could undermine deterrence for serious crimes.

Lebanon has observed a de facto moratorium on

Lebanon has observed a de facto moratorium on executions since 2004, though courts have continued to issue death sentences. The country’s last known execution took place in 1998, according to human rights records.

If enacted, the law would require amending the penal code, which currently lists execution for crimes such as premeditated murder and treason. Life sentences with hard labor are already used in some cases, but the new measure would eliminate the ultimate punishment entirely.

Human rights organizations have welcomed the development, urging other Middle Eastern states to follow suit. However, the bill’s fate remains uncertain amid political divisions and debates over judicial reform.

Lebanon’s move could set a precedent in the

Lebanon’s move could set a precedent in the region, where only a few countries have abolished the death penalty in law. The parliament is expected to deliberate the proposal in the coming months.