Katz Countersigns Herzog's Decision, Finalizing Erasure of Elor Azaria's Criminal Record

Defense Minister Israel Katz countersigned President Isaac Herzog's decision on erasing former IDF soldier Elor Azaria's criminal record, making the erasure final. Herzog signed the order on September 19, accepting Katz's recommendation to shorten with immediate effect the remaining period before the record's deletion. The President's Residence cited roughly a decade since the affair, Azaria's completed sentence, the expired limitation period, changed family circumstances, family medical difficulties and employment barriers. Azaria, now a father of two, told Herzog he respects IDF values and regrets the affair's consequences. The President's Residence stressed that clemency is an act of grace rather than an appeal and does not reopen the military court proceedings.