President Isaac Herzog has expunged the criminal record of former soldier Elor Azaria, who was convicted of manslaughter for killing a Palestinian assailant in 2016.
Key facts
- •Elor Azaria was convicted of manslaughter for the 2016 killing of Abdel Fatah al-Sharif in Hebron.
- •President Isaac Herzog's decision fully erases Azaria's criminal record.
- •The IDF had previously opposed the pardon, citing Azaria's lack of remorse.
- •Defense Minister Israel Katz formally recommended the pardon to the president.
- •The announcement was made on the eve of the Yom Kippur holiday.
President Isaac Herzog announced on Saturday that he has granted a pardon to Elor Azaria, a former IDF soldier convicted of manslaughter for shooting an incapacitated Palestinian attacker in Hebron in 2016. The decision, which erases Azaria's criminal record, followed a formal request from Defense Minister Israel Katz. The President's Office stated the move was intended to allow Azaria to move forward, citing the passage of time and the consequences he has already faced.
Background of the Case
Elor Azaria was convicted of manslaughter after shooting Abdel Fatah al-Sharif, a Palestinian attacker, on March 24, 2016, while serving as a combat medic in the Kfir Brigade. Following his conviction, Azaria served a prison sentence. The IDF had previously opposed a pardon for Azaria, noting a perceived lack of remorse for his actions during the incident.
Official Rationale and Reactions
Defense Minister Israel Katz welcomed the decision, describing it as a humane act that reinforces the principle that the military does not abandon its soldiers. Katz stated that Azaria had paid a heavy personal and family price over the last decade. The President's Office noted that the decision was made in the spirit of the upcoming Yom Kippur holiday, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation and repair.
Timeline
- March 24, 2016Elor Azaria shot and killed a disarmed Palestinian attacker in Hebron.
- August 9, 2017Azaria began serving his prison sentence at the Army Jail in Tzrifin.
- SaturdayPresident Herzog announced the decision to pardon Azaria and erase his criminal record.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Haaretz, Jerusalem Post.
