President Herzog pardons Elor Azaria, IDF soldier convicted of 2016 killing of wounded Palestinian assailant

President Isaac Herzog has granted Elor Azaria a pardon and erased his criminal record ahead of Yom Kippur, according to an announcement on Saturday. After serving over a decade in prison for the 2016 manslaughter of Palestinian attacker Abdel Fatah al-Sharif, Azaria's actions were viewed as justified by the circumstances, the passage of time, and his expressed regret.

The decision aligns with the spirit of these days, emphasizing repair, reconciliation, and moving forward. Defense Minister Israel Katz echoed the sentiment, welcoming the pardon as a humane and worthy act of forgiveness. Elor Azaria, who served as a combat soldier and medic in the Kfir Brigade, is encouraged to rebuild his life and future following this decision.