In an exclusive interview with the daily Yisrael HaYom, Rabbi Herschel Gluck explains religious figures are capable of advancing efforts towards obtaining the release of Gilad Shalit.

The rabbi expressed regret over the fact that WikiLeaks reported on his backroom talks with Iranian officials towards facilitating Shalit’s release. He labeled the WikiLeaks decision to release the information as “irresponsible”.

Back in 2009, Rabbi Gluck met with Ayatollah Syed Salman Safavi, brother of the military adviser to Ayatollah Khamenei, Rahman Safavi. Talks addressed Israelis who are being held by Hizbullah and Hamas, including Ron Arad and Gilad Shalit. These talks, according to the information made available, were held with the knowledge of the government of Israel. Reports of the meetings were submitted to officials channels, reaching the US State Department as well.

Currently based in Stoke Newington, Rabbi Herschel Gluck is honorary secretary of the Arab-Jewish Forum and is chairman and founder of the Muslim-Jewish Forum and the rabbi has a reputation of making inroads in areas where diplomats hit a dead end.

Speaking in London with Yisrael HaYom, he finally confirmed the accuracy of the information released by WikiLeaks. Two weeks earlier, the rabbi declined to confirm or deny the report following the release of information by WikiLeaks.

When asked if he knows if Shalit is alive and about his condition, the rabbi refused to address the questions. He explained that while he has been working towards facilitating Shalit’s release, there are things that he promised not to discuss and it is imperative that he keeps this promise. He added the situation is difficult and people must continue davening.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)