Israeli Soldier on Trial for Killing Subdued Palestinian Attacker on Stand

Sgt. Elor Azaria, the Israeli soldier on trial for manslaughter having allegedly shot and killed a Palestinian attacker who appeared to have already been subdued after stabbing a soldier, takes the stand on Sunday for a highly-anticipated appearance responding to questions by the defense team. When it concluded presentation of its case more than a week ago, prosecutors expressed satisfaction that enough evidence to secure a guilty verdict had been presented. But the key issue of state-of-mind will be explored by defense attorneys who claim that Azaria believed the attacker, although on the ground and bound, still threatened the lives of those nearby. The case sent shockwaves through Israeli society, causing many to re-evaluate the army’s rules of engagement and others to express concern that in a society where all 18-year olds are conscripted, the apparent failure to support soldiers operating in harm’s way is detrimental to the all-important relationship between the populace and the military. The case has also been a political lightning rod for differing opinions on Israeli policies toward Palestinian violence during a period that has seen hundreds of attacks on soldiers and civilians, many by knife-wielding assailants such as in the case of Sgt. Azaria.