Letter from Rabbi Richard Thaler - October, 1995

In response to The Jerusalem Report's cover story on Jonathan Pollard: October 19, 1995

I take exception to Carol and Morris Pollard's labeling of Jonathan Pollard as "emotionally fragile." Having visited with Jonathan at federal prison more than 30 hours, as well as frequently conversing with him by telephone, I can attest to his remarkable emotional resilience. His marriage to Esther Zeitz has strengthened his capacity to transcend the harsh realities of prison existence. Thanks to Esther, previously held feelings of despair have been replace by cautious optimism.

Contrary to the premise of the article, Jonathan has in fact expressed deep remorse for violating the laws of the United States. He has paid his debt to society and should be released.

Rabbi Richard Thaler, New York