Bennett calls to respect court, joins chorus calling for pardon

Education Minister Naftali Bennett, a former IDF commando and head of the right-wing Jewish Home party, says the appeals court’s ruling upholding Elor Azaria’s conviction must be respected, but urges a pardon for the soldier.

“The ruling is difficult, but we must respect the court,” he says in a statement. “Now, after a year and a half of suffering, it’s time to pardon Elor Azaria. For our warriors who find themselves on the front line, and to ensure we don’t lose our deterrent power, Elor Azaria must return home.”

He warns against verbal attacks against IDF officers, such as those heard in protests over the Azaria trial over the past year.

“I have full faith in the chief of staff, [Lt. Gen.] Gadi Eisenkot, and in the IDF’s commanders. There are no circumstances that justify outbursts like those heard in the past,” he says.