Former IDF soldier Elor Azariya, who was convicted on manslaughter charges for shooting a wounded Arab terrorist dead at point blank range, has applied for and has been refused a handgun permit.

According to the Ynet report, the former soldier, who was released from prison after serving 18 months, has applied for a handgun permit. Police have declined the request, maintaining if armed, he would pose a danger to the public.

It should be noted that in order to authorize a person to bear arms, the police conduct a number of examinations that include one’s criminal past and if there are visible threats to the applicant’s life. According to the police report, the act in which Azaria was convicted determines he poses a danger to the public, and that from the investigation conducted following the application, it has been determined that his life does not appear to be in danger.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)