Olmert is resigning.
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert held a special press conference on Wednesday at 8 p.m. where he announced he will not run in the Kadima primary scheduled to take place in September.
Olmert said he would resign from office upon selection of a successor, and would allow his successor to attempt to form a coalition.
Ever the gentleman, he’s leaving office the same way he stayed: Without taking personal responsibility for any of his actions.
The premier lashed out at his political adversaries without naming any of them – either from Kadima or other parties – personally.
Olmert opened his speech by expressing his pride to be a citizen of Israel: “As a citizen in a democracy I have always believed that when a person is elected prime minister in Israel, even those who opposed him in the ballot want him to succeed.
“But instead I found myself subjected to constant investigations and criticism. Almost from day one, I had to repel personal attacks and postpone decisions that are pertinent to the security of the State.”
And then he proceeded to show how blind he truly is:
Olmert then proceeded to recount the successes of his premiership: “And yet, Israel’s position has improved.
“The North enjoys tranquility; Israel’s deterrence has immeasurably improved. I am proud of these achievements,” he said.
On his watch, Hamas took over Gaza, Samir Kuntar was freed in a deal for two soldiers’ bodies, the Lebanon War debacle occurred, and Israel was ready to give up the Golan Heights. Yeah, that’s improved, all right.
No, wait. Israel’s deterrence will be immeasurably improved. Olmert is leaving office. That improves Israel’s standing immediately.
Now, the race is on for his replacement in Kadima. It isn’t Livni’s to lose. Mofaz appears to be coming on strong. And there is still Benjamin Netanyahu in the wings. But I leave the political posts to Snoopy. He’s the Israeli among the three of us co-bloggers.
Finally, some potential good news. Another good side effect – I’d expect very few attacks before the election. The Palestinians should hope for a new PM as weak as Olmert, and the less violence, the more likely that is. It’s my guess as well, that when security issues are minimized, you’re more likely to get fragile coalitions based on pandering to Haredim.
Wow, apparently there IS a God!
Hopefully the ass leaves office before he gives the terrorists the Heights back…
In ancient Rome a failed Emperor would do the honorable thing and kill himself. I wish Olmerde would do the same. He is a despicable human being.