‘EI follow the Israeli -Greece relations not to be affected by the current difficulties. And because I support the solution of the two states and the overthrow of the present Israeli government, I would not criticize the Greek government if it supported it. Indeed, I hope he does it » says in “Step” Euch Olmertformer prime minister (2006-2009), originally from Likund, his party with which he served in various ministerial positions, and then, after being a decade Mayor of Jerusalem, joined, along with then Prime Minister Ariel Saron.
“Enough!” He said in a recent article in the Israeli newspaper “Haaretz”, complaining about his country’s government that he was committing “war crimes” in Gaza, killing civilians. The interview was given a few days before.
Until recently you considered the operations of the Israeli army in Gaza. In recent months you have accused the Israeli government of committing “war crimes”. What contributed to this change?
“Obviously, after October 7, Israel had an absolute right to launch Gaza operations to neutralize its military force. In the battle against the terrorist organization and its leadership in the densely populated strip there was the possibility of huge side losses. In other words, there would be inevitably victims between the civilian population. But last March, Israel has decided not to respect the agreement on the release of the remaining hostages.
In Israel, there is a view that a useless war is now being fought, which does not defend Israel’s security, but is done exclusively for. Such a war, which causes the loss of soldiers, hostages and civilians, is clearly a crime. “
Why did Israel decide to stop humanitarian aid to the Palestinians of Gaza?
“Because the government surrendered to the threats of (Minister of National Security) Ben-Gvir that he would withdraw his party from the coalition government if it allowed it to enter the lane.”
You talked about a “criminal gang led by Benjamin Netanyahu”. Who exactly do you mean?
“I have nothing against the Israeli army. I have everything against the criminals gang led by the ministers of Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotric. They are condemned terrorists. “
You have written that “this war should have ended in early 2024”. Don’t explain how.
“Israel must end military operations in return for the return of hostages, which, as I understand, has already proposed Hamas. I don’t see any impediment to it. “
Can Israel become a State-Party?
“It is likely to become a state-party since even his best friends, whom I personally know as a friend of Israel, is considering sanctions. So do the prime ministers of Italy, the United Kingdom, Canada, the Netherlands and the Chancellor of Germany. “
Are international reactions against Israel as an event of anti -Semitism?
“To argue that there is no anti -Semitism would mean that we are ignoring reality. Today, however, the truth is that in addition to traditional anti-Semitism, there is an anti-Israeli attitude as a result of the developments brought by 7 October. It is true that this type of anti-Semitism is encouraged by contrast in the state of Israel and therefore there is a mixture of anti-Semitism and anti-Israeli attitude. “
“I hope that Greece -Israel relations from current difficulties are not affected, because for me personally Greece has been a good neighbor over time.”
What does the Netanyahu government seek in the West Bank?
“I don’t know. But I know that the atrocities against Palestinian civilians continue on a daily basis. Violent criminals burn their olive groves, set fire to their possessions, attack their homes. The goal is to force the Palestinians to abandon their place. This is the case in front of the eyes of the Israeli police that remains unmoved. It is unforgettable that the government is doing nothing to stop it, not even criticizing it. “
Anti -government protests are increasing. Is there any possibility of a change of Netanyahu government before its planned institutional end in October 2026?
“Netanyahu must be expelled as soon as possible. Although it ensures the required numerical forces in parliament, it does not have popular support. In the meantime, we will continue the demonstrations and every possible reaction to the democratic state to overthrow it. “
How will Gaza be in a year from today?
“Without Hamas in any control position, with a government body linked to the Palestinian Authority. Moderate Arab countries – the Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar – will help rebuild it. “
Will the lane become a “Middle East Riviera”?
“First of all, I believe that there will be no displacement of its inhabitants. Secondly, I hope it will become a Riviera but with people wanting to live there and not fight. And this, I appreciate, may be the beginning of a process that will lead to a comprehensive negotiation between Israel and the Palestinians for the solution of the two states. “
What can Donald Trump’s role be?
“I know the outwardly President Joe Biden very well and I have tremendous respect for his face. I don’t know Trump. It is not predictable, however, I think it wants to solve the conflict. I think it is particularly impatient to put his personal stamp on the completion of a historically violent conflict that has characterized the Middle East, bringing stability. I hope she will use the power of persuasion to force Netanyahu to accept her end. “
What are Israel’s plans for Iran?
“The Netanyahu government is characterized by excessive rhetoric – it is constantly threatening to kill, it will destroy! I hope that President Trump soon will reach an agreement with Iran and will be effective. “
How do you see Israel -Greece relations?
“I wish they will not be affected by the current difficulties because for me personally Greece has been a good neighbor over time. We love the Greek people, we love Greece, we like to visit it and we want to be able to continue our warm relations indefinitely. And because I support the solution of the two states and the overthrow of the present Israeli government, I would not criticize the Greek government if it supported it. Indeed, I hope he does. “
