President Herzog Pardons Soldier Elor Azaria Against IDF's Wishes
Israeli President Isaac Herzog has granted a pardon to former IDF soldier Elor Azaria, erasing his criminal record. The decision came after Defense Minister Israel Katz requested the pardon. Azaria was convicted in 2017 for shooting and killing a Palestinian assailant who had already been subdued during a 2016 incident in Hebron.
The IDF had opposed the pardon, with the military advocate general previously stating that such a move would undermine military discipline and the justice system. Azaria served nine months of a 14-month sentence before being released.
The case sparked significant public debate in Israel, dividing opinions between those who supported Azaria as a soldier acting under pressure and those who condemned his actions as a violation of military conduct and human rights. His conviction was upheld by the military court of appeals.
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