Olmert's Credentials

Political leaders like to protect their backs by appointing deputies whom no-one would ever wish to be left in charge. Here are Ehud Olmert's credentials to lead Israel, from a speech in New York just six months ago:

"We are tired of fighting,
we are tired of being courageous,
we are tired of winning,
we are tired of defeating our enemies..."

Sharon's other second-in-command, Shimon Peres, needs no introduction.

Palestinians need not worry about their elections being cancelled.
They can always use the Knesset to vote Israel into oblivion.