Jonathan Pollard, Former U.S. Intelligence Analyst and Convicted Spy, Announces Knesset Run in Israel
Jonathan Pollard, a former U.S. intelligence analyst who was convicted of spying for Israel, announced his entry into Israeli politics on Sunday. Pollard, 72, will run for the Knesset on the newly formed Israel First Party slate, founded by former deputy foreign minister Sharren Haskel. His announcement was made alongside Haskel at the Western Wall. Pollard stated that the failures surrounding Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack convinced him that Israel has been “abandoned and betrayed” by its leadership. He expressed hope for a new government dedicated to protecting the land and people of Israel, emphasizing that “no one wanted to take responsibility” after the October 7 attack. Pollard also commended Haskel for her past efforts on his behalf, describing her work as quiet and effective. He believes that placing individuals like Haskel in positions of responsibility is the only way to prevent another October 7. 
