Minister Naftali Bennett addressed President Rivlin and asked him to respond positively to Elor Azariya's request for a pardon submitted Thursday. Azariya was sentenced to 18 months in prison. later reduced to 14 months. for killing a wounded, captured terrorist whom he said gave the impression that he was wearing explosives under his jacket.
"Elor was sent to a dangerous region in which there was an attempt to murder Jews. For a long time already Elor and his family have suffered heavily. In addition to the important lesson of "purity of arms," there is equally important to impart our support for soldiers facing terror. The correct and ethical act would be to give him an immediate pardon," said Bennett.