Former Leader Slams Netanyahu’s Strategy as ‘Crime,’ Calls for Two-State Solution
In a fiery interview with AFP, ex-Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert (2006-2009) demanded U.S. President Donald Trump pressure current Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu to end the Gaza conflict, calling its prolongation a ‘crime.’ Olmert argued Trump holds unparalleled influence to ‘make a difference’ in halting the war, which has drawn global criticism.
💡 Key Points:
- Olmert accused Netanyahu of prioritizing ‘personal interests’ over national security, citing failures to prevent Hamas’ October 2023 attack.
- He criticized Israel’s post-March 2024 military escalation despite international calls for de-escalation.
- ‘Innocent Palestinians are killed… this is a crime,’ Olmert stated, urging renewed focus on hostage recovery and a two-state solution.
🌍 Global Context: The U.S. continues backing Israel with UN vetoes and arms sales, while France and Saudi Arabia plan a New York meeting this month to advance Palestinian state recognition. Will geopolitical tides shift? Stay tuned.
Reference(s):
Ex-Israeli PM: Trump must tell Netanyahu to stop the war in Gaza
cgtn.com