“From the moment he stepped down as Prime Minister because of the Talansky affair, Olmert was convinced he’d be acquitted. He refused to reach a plea bargain, and fought for his innocence. Olmert fought a war not only for his personal future, but for his political future as well. At no point over the last few years did Olmert give up his resolve to return to politics and run for prime minster.

Olmert’s associates are claiming that the Holyland case will also end in acquittal, and that the conviction for breach of trust pertaining to the Investments Center affair will not amount to much. According to them, Olmert’s path of return to politics has been paved by acquittal of all charges pertaining to the Talansky and Rishon Tours affairs. The only questions remaining are what will Olmert decide, and if he is ready to return to the political arena soon. If the answers are positive, Olmert, more than anyone else, can position himself as a viable alternative to Netanyahu.

Olmert’s return to politics will not require long, drawn out preparations. Even after he stepped down as prime minister, he never really left politics. His closest advisors and loyal followers from the Prime Minister’s Office are still working with him on his private affairs, he has stayed in regular contact with senior officials from almost every party in the Knesset, and he continues to hold telephone conversations with ambassadors and other foreign leaders.”

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