The prosecution’s star witness, 75-year-old American businessman Moshe Talansky at 9am on Tuesday morning began giving his testimony in the Jerusalem District Court. The testimony is continuing at this time.

Talansky spoke in English, addressing the three-judge panel. Below are some of the highlights taken from his statements, addressing the time period prior to Ehud Olmert becoming prime minister, during his tenure as Jerusalem mayor and minister of industry & trade.

Mr. Talansky stated he at times had checks to give Olmert, but he was told to always give cash only. As such, Talansky stated when he got a check he would cash it and pass cash to Olmert, in envelopes, generally containing between $3,000 – $8,000.

When asked how is it that he knew when Olmert needed money, Talansky stated that “Shula” would contact him, referring to Olmert’s longtime assistance Shula Zaken, who until recently was the prime minister’s bureau chief.

Talansky emphasized that he never expected any personal remuneration for helping Olmert, explaining his actions as “tzedaka” because he really loved Olmert.

Shula would contact Talansky to inform him that Olmert was traveling to the area and he needed money. The witness commented on his awareness of Olmert’s fondness for fine things, cigars and pens in particular. He also stated that Olmert only wanted to travel first class, so he paid the difference between the business class and first class plane ticket.

Mr. Talansky stressed that he was not dealing with “heavy donors,” but usually amounts ranging in the several thousand dollar range, adding that when he came to Israel, he always brought less than $10,000 since this is the maximum permitted.

He received Olmert’s hotel room number from Shula, explaining Olmert was not registered with reception as a minister. Envelopes were not opened in his presence he added when asked if the cash was counted after he gave it to Shula.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)