By Samuel Letchworth

Ehud Olmert, former Prime Minister of Israel, addressed a small crowd Tuesday night at Barnhill Arena. In a resounding oration he spoke on subjects ranging from Judaism to threats of terrorism.

Security was understandably tight. Olmert has become a controversial political figure since his term in office. During his three-year position as Israeli Prime Minister from 2006-2009, his administration and person has been brought up on numerous corruption charges. The state of Israel is also currently being investigated by the United Nations for war crimes against Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip.

Olmert’s presence at the University of Arkansas was certainly divisive. Outside of Barnhill Arena protestors held signs that read slogans such as “War Criminal” and “Arrest Olmert.”

A particular incident under investigation occurred in January of 2009 when a gang of  revolutionary Palestinians fired mortars from the Gaza Strip over the Israeli border wall. Israel responded with military force, resulting in the deaths of over 1,000 Palestinians, 250 of which were children.

“The Palestinians were looking to kill innocent Israeli civilians,” said Olmert in reference to the conflict. “When we had to respond we tried to refrain from killing civilians. Sometimes it is impossible to keep that from happening.”

Olmert expressed sympathy for the Palestinian people. “I would hope that the Palestinians will be compensated for their suffering,” said Olmert. “But no country would have tolerated that attack. I hope that in the near future a very small number of Palestinians will be allowed in Israel.”

Olmert’s tone was jovial, but stern. He joked about being out of a job and railed against Arabic terrorists. The enemy, according to Olmert, was not so much Hamas, but Iran.

“As a Jew,” said Olmert, “Iran is a disgrace. Their government is seeking to build a nuclear force and they have vowed to destroy Israel. Will Israel attack Iran?” Olmer asked rhetorically. “Israel is a very powerful nation.”

“Iran,” said Olmert, “needs to be put in its right place. The sooner, the better.” This comment was received with applause from the crowd.

Olmert was firm in his attitude against terrorism.

“There is no option but to use extreme measures against terrorism,” he said. “Otherwise it will be too late to do anything. Even if it causes pain, we must defend our rights against terrorists and militants for as long as it takes.”

Olmert called on America to aid Israel in the fight against terrorism.

“Israel has taken the same action against terrorism as this country has,” said Olmert. “America cannot afford to show weakness — not now.”