Deputy Prime Minister To Visit Jonathan Pollard

February 2, 1998 - NEWS FLASH!

Butner, North Carolina

- In a personal letter delivered today to Jonathan Pollard, at the Federal Prison in Butner North Carolina, Deputy Prime Minister of Israel Rafael Eitan (Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development) signaled his intention to visit Jonathan Pollard during his next trip to the United States.

Minister Eitan wrote:

"As Deputy Prime Minister and a minister in the government I am doing all that I can to assist you and to take action that will lead to your release..."

"...On my next visit to the United States, I shall make every effort to meet you and give you my public support, an act which is of great importance in relaying the message that you must be freed without any further delay."

Minister Eitan's letter brings to five the number of Israeli Government ministers who are expected to make prison visits to Pollard in the upcoming weeks. The others who have signaled their intent to visit include Finance Minister Yaacov Ne'eman, Minister of Labor Eli Yishai, Minister of Trade Natan Sharansky, and Minister of Infrastructure Ariel Sharon.

Pollard has already received prison visits from Immigrant Absorption Minister Yuli Edelstein, and Communications Minister Limor Livnat. Edelstein was the first Israeli cabinet minister to visit Pollard in November of 1997. Communications Minister Limor Livnat met with Pollard in December of 1997.