The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates expressed in a statement, its deep concern over the preliminary approval by the Knesset (Israeli parliament) of a bill that criminalizes individuals, institutions and humanitarian and human rights organizations that document the crimes of the israeli army.

Such actions are official attempts to conceal violations by the security forces, which constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity, said the statement, which criticized the “genocide, displacements and annexations (of land) to which our people are subjected.” “The world must take measures against these legislative initiatives and, in turn, force the Government to be held accountable,” it stressed.

In recent months, the Israeli parliament has passed several highly controversial bills and legislation, including one banning the presence of the UN agency charged with helping the Palestinians. It also plans to ban entry to people who criticize Israeli policies in the occupied territories and is considering another proposal that would allow settlers to buy land in the West Bank.

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