The Israel Police have refused the request of Jonathan Pollard that he be allowed to carry a firearm.
This morning, Pollard filed an administrative petition against the decision in the Jerusalem District Court, claiming that he requires a firearm for self-defense because he "may be a target for hostile organizations."
According to a report by journalist Liran Tamari, Pollard wants to be allowed to carry a personal pistol because he often travels to the Judea and Samaria area - where he gives lectures on behalf of the Samaria Regional Council.
The petition states that "the petitioner previously served more than 30 years in the Defense Ministry and was even recognized as an Israeli agent employed by the Defense Ministry's 'Lekem' Bureau. "There is no doubt that the petitioner devoted his life to security service for the State, met strict requirements that include a high security clearance as part of his work in the security service of the State of Israel, and that in itself is a sufficient reason to grant him a firearms license."
It was further stated that "the petitioner received a personal recommendation as required from political sources such as the head of the Samaria Regional Council, Mr. Yossi Dagan, and from MK May Golan, who recommends accepting the petitioner's license for a firearms license. In addition, the petitioner is a well-known and public figure and his image is known to all and as long as there is a threat to harm Israeli officials, the fear of threats to his life creates a different situation than that of other persons and he may be a target for hostile organizations."