Today we recited Baruch Matir Asurim “Blessed be the One who frees the captive”—found within morning prayers—with extra appreciation.
Jonathan Pollard is a free man.
In fact, according to Tablet Magazine, he was spotted with his wife, Esther, in New York City only hours after leaving the Federal Correction Complex in Butner, North Carolina.
Imprisoned since 1985, Pollard was originally given a life sentence for spying on the United States on Israel’s behalf. His release has been a major campaign for Israeli leaders and civilians, becoming an added source of tension between the two countries.
“The Jewish people welcome the release of Jonathan Pollard,” Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu was quoted in Arutz Sheva. “As someone who brought up the issue many years with the US President, I have longed for this day.”
Pollard is currently on parole for the next five years, including travel restrictions preventing him from visiting Israel.
According to JTA, Pollard has requested immigrating to Israel, saying he would relinquish his U.S. citizenship and agree never to return to the United States as a condition.
The words of this author reflect his/her own opinions and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Orthodox Union.