The former Israeli Prime Minister has described the Palestinian leader as a "partner for peace".
Ehud Olmert, who resigned from his position in 2009 amid allegations of corruption, dismissed claims that Israel had no partner for negotiations. However he said that all options should be considered for dealing with the Iranian threat.
Addressing the left-wing J Street gala dinner in Washington DC, Mr Olmert expressed his belief that "Abu Mazen [Mahmoud Abbas] wants peace with Israel.
"It may not be the same peace we want, but that's why we negotiate."
