Thousands of demonstrators fill Tel Aviv's Rabin Square, to show support for Elor Azariya.

Over 2,000 people have flocked to Tel Aviv's iconic Rabin Square Tuesday night, in a protest rally for IDF soldier Elor Azariya.

"We are going through a very difficult period," Elor's father Charlie stated to Arutz Sheva at the rally, "but the nation is behind us, making us stronger, and we will win." 

"I call on all the sane people of Israel to attend the rally to support all soldiers," he added. "This is not a political rally - only for soldiers, our children, our heroes, and my son." 

Azariya faces manslaughter charges for controversially shooting dead a neutralized terrorist, after being under the mistaken impression the terrorist was still armed.

The rally has garnered significant support in Israel, with Israeli rap star Kobi Shimoni (Subliminal) and Likud MKs Nava Boker and Oren Hazan in attendance. 

Attendees are holding signs saying "Love the IDF, release Elor"; "We kill, not neutralize terrorists"; and "the IDF is the red line." 

The crowds are expected to grow significantly over the coming hours, and much of central Tel Aviv has been shut down ahead of the turnout. 

Eliran Aharon

Veteran journalist and former MK Sharon Gal opened the demonstration. 

"We came here because we were brought up not to turn away - but, on the contrary, to give support and encouragement," Gal began. "The nation of Israel has been drafted to support its combat soldiers." 

"Elor our brother, we are confident that as you sit in prison, you see the nation of Israel behind you, the nation of Israel with you and not abandoning you." 

Eliran Aharon

Azariya's parents also spoke during the event, with his mother, Oshriyah, describing the moment her son told her his desire to be a combat soldier.

"My heart broke at that moment," she confided. "In my heart of hearts I'd hope you'd change your mind, but since then and always you have always been full of motivation." 

"Be strong for me, and we pray that before Passover, you too will be a free man."