MKs urge Sarkozy to extradite Zeituni's killers
Seventy Knesset members sign letter calling on French president to overcome legal obstacles, turn over French citizens who ran over Israeli woman
Some 70 Knesset members signed a formal letter calling on French President Nicolas Sarkozy to arrange the extradition of the two men who ran over Lee Zeituni.
Zeituni was ran over by Claude Isaac Khayat and Eric Robic, both French citizens, in Tel Aviv on September 16. The two left her to die and escaped the scene. They fled the country several hours later. They have since stated they do not intend to return to Israel and French law prohibits authorities from extraditing them.
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The letter states that the two men are "offenders known to police in Israel and France" and notes that they were previously arrested in France over similar traffic violations.
The letter also explains that problems with the extradition issue between Israel and France have made the latter a safe haven for offenders.
"As leaders in the State of Israel who are proud of their country and are working to protect our citizens both in and out of Israel we understand your need to preserve national pride. But safeguarding this principle must not betray France's core values."
The letter concludes with the words: "We call on you, a friend of Israel, to find the legal, constitutional or diplomatic solution that will enable the extradition of the suspects to Israel. Only then will Lee Zeituni be able to rest in peace when justice is served."
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