 On 27 September, Shmuel Zakai testified in favor of Azaria claiming that he didn't shoot to kill and also stated that the way he is documented in the videos shooting Sharif, it was clear to him that Azaria was in danger.He gave his opinion that Azaria was afraid of a bomb while criticizing Azaria's company commander Tom Na'aman stating that the incident would have been avoided had he properly clarified the rules of engagement.He explained that in some operational situations, orders are given that alter the rules of engagement, such as when opening fire would put IDF soldiers at risk, stating Na'aman did not give that order and left the soldier with the previous and unclear rules of engagement.