Jonathan Pollard joins Sharren Haskel's Israel First party ahead of elections

Jonathan Pollard, a figure known for his espionage activities on behalf of Israel, has announced his entry into politics by joining MK Sharren Haskel's newly formed right-wing party, Israel First. The announcement was made in a joint statement filmed near the Western Wall in Jerusalem.

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I believe in Sharren. And I believe in Israel.

Pollard publicly declared his support for Haskel and the political direction of Israel First, a party Haskel, a former deputy foreign minister, launched in July. "I believe in Sharren. And I believe in Israel," Pollard stated during the joint appearance.

Haskel welcomed Pollard's endorsement, describing his decision to join the party as a significant boost. "The Israel First party is receiving significant reinforcement today from Israeli hero Jonathan Pollard, who paid a very heavy personal price for his commitment to Israel and the Jewish people," Haskel said. She added that Pollard's trust in her and the party's path was a "great privilege and a great responsibility."

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The Israel First party is receiving significant reinforcement today from Israeli hero Jonathan Pollard, who paid a very heavy personal price for his commitment to Israel and the Jewish people.

Pollard, who served 30 years in prison for spying and providing classified information to Israel, was released on parole in 2015. After residing in the U.S. until 2020, he immigrated to Israel and was initially welcomed as a hero. However, he has since become a critic of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, advocating for its replacement in the upcoming election.

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To stand here today, near the Western Wall, and hear from him that he places his trust in me and in the path of ‘Israel First’ is a great privilege and a great responsibility. I accept that trust with humility and determination.