Early in February, former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert was a guest on Israeli TV Channel 2’s popular “Friday Studio” talk show. On it, he gave a comprehensive interview about the faltering diplomatic negotiations between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
Decked out in a dark, meticulously tailored suit and a blue tie, Olmert spoke at length about his personal conversations and the relationship of trust that he was able to build with Abbas during their long meetings at his private home in Jerusalem. He also revealed new information about a plan which the security establishment prepared under his guidance, to evacuate the Jordan Valley in the event that an agreement with the Palestinians is signed.