Netanyahu: I'll ask Obama to free Pollard

Day after meeting spy's wife, PM says will work diligently to free him; says it is Israel's 'moral obligation.' White House: Release not on table

Ynet reporters|Last update: 12.21.10 , 23:19

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Monday he would ask US President Barack Obama to free Jonathan Pollard.

The PM's announcement came a day after he met with the convicted spy's wife, Esther, who asked that he work towards releasing her husband.

Netanyahu's office said the decision to publicly call for Pollard's release was reached following "a series of talks the PM has held over the past few months with senior American officials."

"I plan to work diligently to have Pollard freed due to Israel's moral obligation to him and so that he will be able to live with his family and rehabilitate his health after a long period of incarceration," a statement issued on behalf of Netanyahu said.

Esther Pollard responded to Netanyahu's announcement by saying, "Jonathan and I are heartened by Prime Minister Netanyahu's announcement that he plans to make a formal, official and public request for Jonathan's release to President Obama. We want to strengthen the prime minister's hand and bless him for success, without obstacle or delay.

"We ask all those who value the US - Israel special relationship to come forward and support Mr. Netanyahu in his appeal for justice and compassion at this special time of year," she said in a statement.

"We pray that the president of the United States will see fit to extend his hand to Israel in compassion, in friendship and in justice -- to cut the Gordian knot once and for all, by sending Jonathan home now.

Esther Pollard added, "From the slew of emails and phone calls we are receiving from Americans abroad and Israelis at home, this would be the consummate act of friendship towards the Jewish People. Most importantly, it would literally save Jonathan's life, and that is what I am praying for most of all."

Referring to Netanyahu's announcement, White House Spokesman Robert Gibbs said that as far as he knows Pollard's release is not up for discussion.

Since Pollard was sent to jail 25 years ago, the various American administrations, even those considered very pro-Israel, have refused to pardon him.