Olmert: I endorsed Holyland, wasn't involved in subsequent changes

Former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert denied Thursday the allegations made against him in the Holyland affair and welcomed the removal of the gag order on his involvement in the case.

In a statement given from his Tel Aviv office Olmert said, "There was an attempt at an unprecedented character assassination. Baseless rumors without a speck of truth were spread." Olmert stressed that he endorsed the Holyland project but noted, "the plans were completely altered after I ceased acting as mayor. I have no connection to the changes that took place later." (Aviad Glickman)