Olmert feels last 7 years were ‘heaviest punishment’

Former prime minister Ehud Olmert says he has become a “punching bag” for the duration of the past several years.

Speaking at the Jerusalem District Court during sentencing arguments for his conviction on corruption charges, the former prime minister says, “The verdict tarnishes some decisions and actions for which I’m responsible. I do not take this conviction lightly. I do believe, however, that the court acknowledges my contribution to the State of Israel and the security of its existence.”

“I feel there is no heavier punishment than what I have been living with for seven long years. For almost a tenth of my life I have become a punching bag that whoever beats it harder earns more prestige in certain circles. Any punishment you decide to give me will be added to the moments I’ve been coping with over the past few years,” Olmert says.

He also notes that all actions attributed to him were taken before the “years where the responsibility for running the country and maintaining the security of its residents was on my shoulders.”