Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has called on U.S. President Donald Trump to demand an immediate end to Israel\u2019s military operations in Gaza, describing the prolonged conflict as a \u201ccrime\u201d and emphasizing the urgent need for a two-state solution to achieve lasting peace.
A Plea for U.S. Intervention
In an exclusive interview with AFP in Paris, Olmert stressed that Washington holds unparalleled influence over Israel\u2019s government. \u201cThe U.S. has more leverage than all other nations combined,\u201d said Olmert, who served as prime minister from 2006 to 2009. \u201cPresident Trump can make a difference by telling [Benjamin] Netanyahu, \u2018Enough is enough.\u2019\u201d
Criticism of Netanyahu\u2019s Leadership
Olmert accused Netanyahu of prioritizing \u201cpersonal interests over national ones,\u201d citing his failure to prevent Hamas\u2019 October 7, 2023, attack and subsequent rejection of ceasefire opportunities in March. \u201cContinuing this war risks more Israeli soldier casualties, endangers hostages, and kills innocent Palestinians,\u201d he said. \u201cThat\u2019s not defense \u2013 it\u2019s a crime.\u201d
International Momentum for Palestinian Statehood
The remarks come as France and Saudi Arabia prepare to co-host a high-level meeting in New York later this month to discuss pathways toward recognizing a Palestinian state. While the U.S. remains Israel\u2019s staunchest ally \u2013 approving billions in arms sales and wielding its UN Security Council veto \u2013 global pressure for a political resolution continues to mount.
Olmert\u2019s intervention underscores growing divisions within Israeli political circles and highlights the strategic role of U.S. diplomacy in shaping the conflict\u2019s trajectory.
