Elor Azaria, an IDF paramedic convicted of manslaughter for shooting an immobilized Palestinian terrorist in Hebron in 2016, has been released from prison after serving nine months of his original 18-month sentence.
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Gadi Eizenkot shortened the sentence to 14 months following an appeal from the prisoner, and the remainder of his sentence was commuted as a reward for his good behavior while incarcerated.
Azaria was due to be released this Thursday but was freed two days early to be able to attend his brother's wedding on Wednesday.
"The day we've longed for is here. We're all thrilled," a relative said in response to the release.
Azaria's parents, Charlie and Oshrat Azaria, were waiting for him at the prison gate and presented him with a white T-shirt bearing the slogan in blue: "This is my only country," along with the words to "Hatikvah," the national anthem.
Friends and activists who campaigned for Azaria's release organized a convoy to celebrate.
In anticipation of his release, neighbors spent part of last weekend decorating the street where he lives with his family.
"This is his last Shabbat in prison. We decided to decorate and get everything ready to welcome him when he finally comes home," a friend said.
Azaria's sister, Etti, posted a message on her Facebook page on Monday: "Our happy family's heart, we're waiting for you at home and waiting to reattach your wings.
"My brother, more precious to me than my own soul … only a little bit longer … stay strong like you were in the past years and months, love. We're waiting for the final answer from the parole board. Thank you to these dear people who in these critical months have supported and embraced us."
Oshrat Azaria wept with joy and held a radio interview with Sharon Gal, who advised the Azaria family during the trial and appeals process.
"Wow, I can't describe my joy. My son is home, my son is home! We're dancing. We're so happy," she said.
Oshrat Azaria recited the "Shema" prayer and described what happened when her son returned home.
"I got a phone call saying he was on his way. I ran around like a crazy woman. His dog came downstairs with me, jumped on his duffel bag, and wouldn't get down. He's still in shock," she said.
Charlie Azaria said, "The weight of 26 months, the wrong – thank God heaven smiled down on us. It's unbelievable. We're all around him, we aren't leaving him alone for a moment."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed Azaria's release from prison and said he was glad the affair was over.
Politicians rushed to add their views.
Education Minister Naftali Bennett tweeted: "Elor, it's so good to have you home!"
Deputy Defense Minister Eli Ben-Dahan said, "Elor should have been released long ago. An operational problem shouldn't be subject to criminal proceedings. The bill providing immunity for IDF soldiers that Habayit Hayehudi faction head Shuli Mualem-Rafaeli and I are proposing will defend IDF soldiers and prevent similar cases in the future."
Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz said, "It's time for Elor to be home with his family and friends. I am asking President Reuven Rivlin to take steps to have Elor's criminal record expunged to allow him to integrate into civilian life."
