Israeli Prime Minister Signals End Of Term
JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert says he won’t run in his party’s primary election in September. His announcement signals the end of his term in office and could stall U.S.-backed Mideast peace efforts.
Olmert is facing several corruption investigations. He has denied wrongdoing but pledged to resign if indicted.
The prime minister spoke on TV and radio Wednesday evening. He also said, “I will vacate my position” to allow his successor to form a government.
His decision not to run in the Sept. 17 Kadima Party primary sets in motion a process to choose a new prime minister.
If Olmert’s successor as party leader can form a coalition, Israel could have a new government in October. If not, an election campaign could take several months.
