Israeli President Pardons Soldier Convicted of Killing Wounded Palestinian in 2016

Politics8 sourcesSep 20, 2026

ConsensusFactual rigor 50/100

The Story

The pardon effectively expunges Azaria's criminal record, which was otherwise set to be cleared in 2032.

Azaria, then an IDF sergeant and medic, was filmed shooting 21-year-old Abdel Fattah al-Sharif in Hebron. The case dates back to 2016, though one report states the execution occurred in 2017. President Herzog's decision overrules the military's previous objections to pardoning Azaria. The IDF had cited Azaria's lack of remorse over his actions. Defense Minister Katz, who requested the pardon, states it sent a message that they do not leave their soldiers behind.

The case divided Israel. Some reports describe al-Sharif as an incapacitated Palestinian attacker or assailant, while others refer to him as a Palestinian terrorist who had stabbed a soldier.

What they agree on

Israeli President Isaac Herzog pardons former soldier Elor Azaria.
Elor Azaria was convicted of manslaughter for shooting a wounded Palestinian man in Hebron in 2016.
The pardon effectively expunges Azaria's criminal record.
The IDF had previously objected to the pardon, citing Azaria's lack of remorse.
Defense Minister Katz requested the pardon, stating it sent a message that "we do not leave our soldiers behind."

Where they split

Al Jazeera and Middle East Eye frame the pardon as Azaria killing a "wounded Palestinian man," while Jewish News Syndicate refers to the victim as a "Palestinian terrorist."
CNN emphasizes that President Herzog "overrules military" in granting the pardon.
Al Bawaba states the incident occurred in 2017, while most other outlets report it happened in 2016.
Haaretz and RT focus on the pardon clearing Azaria's criminal record.