Former Israeli spy urges President Herzog to pardon former IDF soldier in exclusive letter obtained by i24NEWS

Former Israeli spy Jonathan Pollard has appealed to President Isaac Herzog to pardon former IDF soldier Elor Azaria and expunge his criminal record. Azaria was convicted in 2016 for the fatal shooting of a wounded Palestinian attacker in Hebron. Pollard argues Azaria's sentence was "grossly disproportional" and influenced by political considerations, further stating that Azaria "killed a terrorist who he thought still presented a threat to his comrades."

• Pollard's letter supports a similar request from Defense Minister Israel Katz, who seeks early expungement of Azaria's record, citing the time passed, Azaria's completed sentence, and the impact on his family.
• Katz also highlighted the release of convicted terrorists in hostage deals, suggesting it would be difficult to deny Azaria a chance to rebuild his life.
• The President's Office confirmed Azaria's formal request for early expungement is underway, with Herzog awaiting opinions from military officials before making a decision.