The law was passed on August 11, 2026, following a parliamentary vote that formally removed capital punishment from Lebanon’s legal system. The decision is being viewed as a significant development for justice and human rights in the country.
Lebanon’s Minister of Justice, Adel Nassar, described the move as a “major historic moment,” saying it represents an important step in strengthening justice and protecting human rights.
Although the death penalty remained legally available in Lebanon, the country had not carried out an execution for more than two decades. Since 2004, no person had been executed by the state under a death sentence.
The abolition therefore formalizes a long-standing practice in which Lebanon had effectively maintained a moratorium on executions, while death sentences could still be handed down by courts.
The decision also marks a significant development in the Middle East, where several countries continue to retain and use the death penalty for serious crimes.
Supporters of the legislation say abolishing capital punishment strengthens the protection of the right to life and brings Lebanon closer to international human rights standards.
Minister Nassar welcomed the parliamentary decision, describing it as an important milestone in the country’s efforts to reform its justice system.
The move is also expected to reinforce Lebanon’s position in discussions surrounding human rights and judicial reform, particularly as countries around the world continue to debate whether capital punishment should remain part of criminal justice systems.
