Jonathan Pollard (pictured above) was shocked by the news of his upcoming release. PHOTO: Wikipedia.

Convicted Israeli spy Jonathan Pollard reacted with shock and disbelief when his lawyer, Eliot Lauer, delivered the news to him that he would be released this upcoming November, Israel’s Channel 2 reported on Tuesday.

“I immediately called Pollard after the announcement,” said Lauer. “He was shocked and speechless.”

“He had very little to say besides thanking God and everyone who supported him,” Lauer added. “He’s very happy for Esther (Pollard’s wife) who fought for his freedom for all of these years.”

“I am looking forward to being reunited with my beloved wife Esther,” Pollard said through his attorneys. “I would like to thank the many thousands of well-wishers in the United States, in Israel, and throughout the world, who provided grass roots support by attending rallies, sending letters, making phone calls to elected officials, and saying prayers for my welfare. I am deeply appreciative of every gesture, large or small.”

Lauer also said that he was personally thrilled by the news. “We really waited for this day to come. We are happy that finally he will be able to unite with Esther after 30 years in prison.”

He said that with four months to go until his release, Pollard is making plans for life outside prison. “He is planning a very productive life together with his wife.”

Lauer also commented on reports that Pollard would not be allowed to move to Israel within the first five years of his release. He expressed hope that the Parole Commission would not prevent him from making the trip.

Pollard’s U.S. legal team noted that he was being released under very restrictive conditions, but added that President Obama could issue a waiver on the travel ban.

Pollard was formerly a U.S. naval intelligence analyst who passed on top-secret classified information to Israel. He pleaded guilty to the charge.

After some speculation in the media about Pollard’s release, it was announced on Tuesday that he would be freed on his scheduled parole date on November 20th this year.