- Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has condemned Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, accusing it of a “criminal” military campaign in Gaza, citing high civilian casualties and a humanitarian blockade.
- Olmert urged international intervention, calling on President Trump to publicly pressure Netanyahu to end the war and address the humanitarian crisis.
- The 19-month conflict has drawn widespread international criticism, with human rights groups highlighting a worsening crisis and rising Palestinian civilian deaths.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has issued sharp criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, accusing it of pursuing a “criminal” military campaign in Gaza. In an opinion piece for Israeli newspaper Haaretz on Monday, Olmert stated that the ongoing conflict lacks moral and strategic justification, citing soaring civilian casualties and an extended blockade on humanitarian aid.
“What happens today in Gaza is totally unacceptable, intolerable and unforgivable”
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert attacks the Israeli government for blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza#Peston pic.twitter.com/hWfIngF4eu
— Peston (@itvpeston) May 14, 2025
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The remarks mark a significant break from Olmert, who served as prime minister from 2006 to 2009 and had previously defended Israel against allegations of war crimes. Speaking to CNN on Tuesday, Olmert described Netanyahu’s administration as a group of “thugs” prolonging the war for “political purposes.”
Rising Concerns Over Gaza Campaign
Olmert’s criticism comes amid international scrutiny of Israel’s actions during its 19-month military campaign in Gaza. He condemned the government’s handling of the war, particularly its blockade on humanitarian aid, which he described as an effort to “starve Gaza.”
“What is it if not a war crime?” Olmert wrote in Haaretz. “What we are doing in Gaza now is a war of devastation: indiscriminate, limitless, cruel, and criminal killing of civilians.”
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Since the war began, the Israeli government has faced mounting pressure from Western leaders to ease restrictions on aid and address the humanitarian crisis. The United Nations and various human rights organizations have raised concerns over the rising number of Palestinian civilian deaths and the lack of access to essential supplies for Gaza’s population.
International Response and Pressure
Olmert called on President Donald Trump to take a more active role in urging Netanyahu to change course. Referring to President Trump as a “great friend of Israel,” Olmert suggested that he summon Netanyahu to the Oval Office to publicly demand an end to the war.
“The international condemnation of Netanyahu’s policies is growing,” Olmert told CNN. “President Trump must take the lead, face the TV cameras, and tell Netanyahu: ‘Enough is enough. End the war and address humanitarian needs.’”
Background on the Conflict
The war in Gaza began 19 months ago as an effort to curb Hamas operations in the region. However, critics, including Olmert, argue that the ongoing military operations now serve no clear strategic purpose. The campaign has resulted in significant casualties and widespread destruction, with humanitarian organizations warning of a deepening crisis.
Olmert’s comments also highlight divisions within Israel’s political landscape. Once a member of Netanyahu’s Likud party, Olmert left to form a centrist faction and has since become a vocal critic of right-wing policies.
What Happens Next?
Olmert’s public remarks may amplify international calls for a resolution to the conflict. Western governments are likely to continue pressuring Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza and protect civilian lives. Analysts suggest that escalating international criticism could force Netanyahu’s government to adjust its approach, though significant policy shifts remain uncertain.
As the situation unfolds, the global community will watch closely for signs of change in Israel’s military strategy and humanitarian response.
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