Top IDF Officials Oppose Defense Minister's Move to Erase Elor Azaria's Criminal Record

Senior Israeli military leaders have opposed Defense Minister Yoav Gallant's decision to approve the erasure of Elor Azaria's criminal record. According to a letter obtained by Channel 14, IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi, Military Advocate General Itai Ophir, and Personnel Directorate Head Major General Dado Bar-Kalifa all recommended against supporting Azaria's request, citing that he has not expressed remorse for his actions. Despite their unified opposition, Gallant signed the request and forwarded it to President Isaac Herzog for approval.

Azaria and his family have been campaigning for the record erasure to help him reintegrate into society and secure dignified employment since his conviction four years ago. The Defense Minister described the criminal record as an "injustice" and decided to override the military's advice. The military officials emphasized that Azaria's offense was serious and that no new circumstances justified changing the IDF's stance. Azaria had personally appealed to the three senior officers, detailing his difficulties post-service, but their recommendation remained unchanged.

The case highlights a rare public disagreement between the civilian defense leadership and the IDF's top brass. The final decision now rests with President Herzog, who will consider Gallant's request to shorten the period before Azaria's criminal record is erased.