Once a U.S. intelligence analyst, Jonathan Pollard served 30 years in prison for selling classified documents to Israel in the 1980s. On May 6, 2026, he revealed his intention to run for a seat in the Israeli Knesset, citing his past errors and a strong desire to contribute to national leadership.
In a recent interview, Pollard acknowledged the gravity of his espionage, stating, "I made a mistake, I didn't think about the consequences." He added that he is now focused on leaving a "better legacy." Pollard has expressed deep concern about the direction of Israeli politics, particularly in the wake of recent conflicts that have highlighted failures in government leadership.
He plans to establish a new right-wing party in collaboration with Nissim Louk, whose daughter was killed in a Hamas attack in 2023. Pollard's platform emphasizes military self-sufficiency, mandatory national service for all citizens, and a strong stance against perceived government betrayal.
Pollard has been critical of current Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, claiming the government has not adequately protected the nation during ongoing conflicts. He advocates for more aggressive measures regarding the Palestinian population in Gaza, including the "involuntary transfer" of residents.
His political aspirations mark a notable shift, as Pollard has previously avoided political involvement. He believes that the aftermath of the October 7 attack has redefined his role and responsibilities as an Israeli citizen. Pollard arrived in Israel in late 2020 and has since aimed to integrate into the political landscape, despite skepticism about his potential impact in the Knesset.
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