Former Spy Jonathan Pollard Joins Israeli Politics, Endorses Sharren Haskel's Party

Jonathan Pollard, the former American-born spy who served Israel and was imprisoned in the US for espionage, announced on Sunday his entry into Israeli politics by joining the "Israel First" party. This political platform was established by former Deputy Minister Sharren Haskel ahead of the October elections. Speaking alongside Haskel near the Western Wall, Pollard expressed his disillusionment with the government’s response to the events of October 7, stating, "I saw that the country was abandoned and betrayed. With you, I hope there will be a new government dedicated to protecting the land and the people of Israel." He criticized current politicians for avoiding responsibility since that date and emphasized the need for leaders like Haskel, praising her loyalty, effectiveness, and quiet dedication.

Pollard, now 72, worked in the US Navy intelligence division before being arrested by the FBI in 1985 and sentenced to life imprisonment in 1987. He was released in 2015 and immigrated to Israel in 2020 after restrictions on him were lifted. Ahead of the previous elections in 2022, Pollard briefly supported Ayelet Shaked but withdrew his endorsement due to right-wing pressure. Haskel welcomed Pollard’s support, calling it a significant boost for her party and acknowledging the heavy personal price he paid for his commitment to Israel and the Jewish people. She described his trust in her as both a great honor and responsibility.