The state prosecutor will not appeal a decision by the parole board to grant former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert an early release, paving the way for his discharge from Maasiyahu prison this coming Sunday.
Earlier on Thursday, the parole board accepted Olmert’s request for early release, days after he was hospitalized after complaining of chest pains.
By the time Olmert returns home on Sunday, he will have served two thirds of his 17-month jail term.
The Justice Ministry issued a statement Thursday evening regarding the former Prime Minister’s release: “During a deliberation at the Attorney General’s Office, which included the state prosecutor and prosecution staff, the parole board’s decision was thoroughly studied.”
“The state prosecutor advised that given the circumstances, there is no basis for an appeal to the district court against the parole board’s decision. The Attorney General has adopted that recommendation, and as such has decided not to file an appeal with the district court.”
In recent days, voices from the political system have called to free Olmert. Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz (Likud) said, “The former Prime Minister was punished and fulfilled two thirds of his punishment. The attribute of mercy requires that he be sent home.”
Minister Naftali Bennett (Jewish Home) wrote on Twitter, “The time has come to free Olmert. Despite the differences of opinion, there is no argument about his contributions to the security of Israel. The time has come to show mercy.”