For the second time in his life, Elor Azaria is facing the heart-wrenching fear that comes with the news that someone he cares about has been wounded in an attack by Palestinian Authority terrorists — but this time, it’s his beloved commander, who rose to defend him during a military trial on manslaughter charges.
IDF Major Yisrael Meir Elitzur was severely injured when a vehicle driven by the terrorists rammed into him and a Border Guard Police officer near the village of Nima west of Ramallah in Binyamin. An IDF unit in the area responded by firing at the ramming vehicle, killing two of the terrorists and injuring a third.
Read: Ramming Attack in Binyamin, Officer Seriously Injured, Riot Erupts
Elitzur had testified on behalf of Azaria when he was being tried on manslaughter charges for the shooting death of an injured terrorist in Hebron moments after he had carried out a stabbing attack on Azaria’s friend in the Kfir Brigade in which they both served. At the time, Azaria was an IDF medic. Azaria was subsequently convicted and sentenced to 18 months in prison. Elitzur continued to advocate for his soldier, and visited him as well. Azaria served nine months of his sentence and was discharged in August 2018.
Upon hearing the news that his commander was badly injured, Azaria and his family immediately went to the hospital. The former soldier posted an impassioned appeal on his Facebook page, calling out to the Jewish nation for prayers for a speedy recovery for his former commander.
Editor’s Note: The public is asked to please pray for the speedy recovery of Yisroel Meir Yaakov ben Rut.
“Elitzur is a dear brother and a hero,” Azaria wrote. “I hope you will have a speedy recovery with the help of God. You always stood with me and held me during that difficult period we went through, and through service as my deputy commander.
“You’re a man of gold, who always fights like a lion, because it’s your nature – the way you fought to visit me in prison – and now you’re fighting these murderers. Proud to say I was your soldier and with great pride to call you Commander!
“Please ask all of the great and precious people of Israel – pray for his speedy recovery with God’s help!
“Unfortunately I was not there with you, but be sure that I, my family and all the people of Israel are always there for you and your family, with great love!
“I love you very much my brother, you are always a hero of Israel! No miserable terrorist will stop us; the people of Israel are forever. The people of Israel live!”
