Israeli ambassador to U.S. to visit Jonathan Pollard in jail on

WASHINGTON – Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Danny Ayalon is due to visit Israeli spy Jonathan Pollard in his North Carolina prison today. This will be the first time that an Israeli ambassador will be visiting Pollard, who was sentenced to life after being convicted of spying in March 1987. Israeli sources said the purpose of Ayalon’s visit is to examine Pollard’s condition, and to convey to him that the Israeli government is concerned about him. Pollard has previously received delegation visits of Knesset members and activists for his release, but the decision to send the ambassador as an official representative of Israel is seen as a change in Israeli policy. Prime Minister Ariel Sharon spoke during his last visit to Washington of Ayalon’s planned visit with Pollard, and Israeli officials advised the U.S. administration of this intention. Pollard is continuing the legal struggle for his release via the American justice system, and has recently petitioned the High Court of Justice in Israel, demanding to be recognized as a Prisoner of Zion. Pollard’s petition says he has undergone torture and harassment during his years of incarceration in the U.S. prison. BPI-info