Ehud Olmert, the former Prime Minister of Israel, has publicly condemned the nation’s current political leadership and military conduct regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. War crimes Olmert, who served as prime minister from 2006 to 2009, acknowledged the indefensibility of Israel in the face of war crime charges. He stressed that the steps that have been proposed only allow for one interpretation.
In a series of statements, Olmert directed his criticism towards Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and far-right members of his government. He accused them of engaging in “actions which can’t be interpreted any other way.” The former leader described the military operations in Gaza as “a war of devastation: indiscriminate, limitless, cruel and criminal killing of civilians,” highlighting the humanitarian crisis that has unfolded.
As resistance to the brutal ongoing conflict grows, so does a staggering protestor death toll. More than 54,000 Palestinians are said to have been killed, including at least 28,000 women and children. Olmert emphasized how Israel’s 11-week blockade on humanitarian aid entering Gaza has further aggravated the situation for civilians.
“What is it if not a war crime?” – Ehud Olmert
Olmert’s statements are a reflection of increased public frustration with the Israeli government’s repeated provocations. He believes that many Israelis are “sick and tired” of the current administration’s approach and the “terrible damage” it has caused to Israel’s moral integrity.
The former Prime Minister also expressed hope that U.S. President Donald Trump could play a pivotal role in ending the conflict. He stated, “I really certainly think that he is the only person perhaps that can force the Israeli prime minister to come to terms with reality and with the moral reality of what is being accomplished by this government.” Olmert emphasized the need for a shift in strategy to prevent further civilian casualties, asserting that “no uninvolved people in Gaza are hurt because of the expansion of these military operations.”
Olmert’s duration as Prime Minister was rife with scandals. He would eventually be convicted on a number of corruption related charges and sentenced to 16 months in prison. Despite his past, he has positioned himself as a critic of the current leadership’s military strategy, raising concerns about Israel’s international reputation.
“I hope that this government will disappear as soon as possible.” – Ehud Olmert
