Politician · country

Ehud Olmert on Israel

Critic of current Gaza policy (strong)

TL;DR

Ehud Olmert strongly believes the current war in Gaza is an illegitimate campaign that necessitates an immediate end and a return to a two-state solution path.

Key Points

He wrote in a May 2025 Haaretz article that Israel is committing war crimes in its Gaza campaign, citing indiscriminate targeting of civilians.
He supported the initial military operation following the October 7 attack but soon opposed its continuation, believing the current government is prolonging it for political benefit.
During his term, he engaged in peace talks, including the 2007 Annapolis Conference, and stated in 2007 that the collapse of a two-state solution would mean the end of Israel.
He previously served as Mayor of Jerusalem from 1993 to 2003 and as Prime Minister from 2006 to 2009, when the 2006 Lebanon War occurred.

Summary

Ehud Olmert, a former prime minister of Israel, has become a vocal critic of his country's ongoing military operation in Gaza, stating that Israel is committing war crimes. While he initially supported the counteroffensive following the October 7 attack, he argues that after an extended period, the military campaign has lost attainable goals and is endangering hostages. He asserts that the current government is continuing the war for political considerations rather than national security interests. Olmert believes the only viable path forward is to stop the fighting now, secure a hostage/prisoner exchange agreement, and implement an international security force in Gaza as a precursor to re-engaging in peace negotiations with the Palestinians.

His post-premiership stance has seen an evolution from his past policy positions, including his earlier opposition to land withdrawal, contrasting with his current strong advocacy for a two-state solution. He contends that failing to offer a political horizon and remaining an occupying power destroys the moral foundation of the State of Israel. Olmert suggests that despite the current weakness of the Palestinian Authority, it is still the best negotiating partner for achieving a sustainable resolution, emphasizing that peace must be made with enemies. He maintains that his past service grants him the obligation to speak out against what he perceives as the current government's destructive approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ehud Olmert's current position on the war in Gaza?

Ehud Olmert strongly believes the ongoing war in Gaza must end immediately, stating in May 2025 that Israel is committing war crimes. He asserts the campaign is illegitimate and driven by the prime minister's need to escape political ramifications, rather than genuine security needs. According to interviews, he advocates for a ceasefire and the initiation of a political process.

Has Ehud Olmert always supported the current government's approach to Gaza?

No, Ehud Olmert absolutely supported the initial Israeli counteroffensive after the October 7 attack but now claims the military operation has gone on too long. In a June 2025 interview, he explained that his shift in view is based on the massive civilian casualties and the perceived political motivations of the leadership. He has called the current government a 'criminal gang' and suggested they are intentionally prolonging the war.

What solution does Ehud Olmert propose for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?

Ehud Olmert is a proponent of restarting the path toward a two-state solution, as he told reporters and in published opinion pieces. He believes that Israel must offer a political horizon to avoid destroying its moral foundation through continued occupation. He has indicated that he has discussed potential deals with representatives of the Palestinian Authority.