[Bug] image variable isn't registered while compiling matchImageReferences in ImageValidatingPolicy

Kyverno Version

1.18.0

Kubernetes Version

1.33.x

Kubernetes Platform

Minikube

Kyverno Rule Type

verifyImages

Description

Docs describe the ability to use expression in matchImageReferences to filter images for ImageValidatingPolicy: https://release-1-18-0.kyverno.io/docs/policy-types/image-validating-policy/#matchimagereferences

But when i'm trying to apply policy with the example mentioned on the page i'm getting error undeclared reference to 'image'

We discussed that problem in slack and find out that the image variable isn't registered while compiling matchImageReferences: https://kubernetes.slack.com/archives/CLGR9BJU9/p1787756876743729

kyverno 1.18.2 k8s 1.33.8

Steps to reproduce

1. Apply ImageValidatingPolicy with expression in matchImageReferences just like here: https://release-1-18-0.kyverno.io/docs/policy-types/image-validating-policy/#matchimagereferences
2. Got error

Expected behavior

Policy can be applied and filter images by the expression

Screenshots

Kyverno logs

Slack discussion

https://kubernetes.slack.com/archives/CLGR9BJU9/p1787756876743729

Troubleshooting

• I have read and followed the documentation AND the troubleshooting guide.
• I have searched other issues in this repository and mine is not recorded.