Ehud Olmert became the acting Prime Minister of Israel after Ariel Sharon experienced a more serious stroke on January 4, 2006. This marked a critical juncture in Israeli politics, as Sharon had been a dominant figure in the political landscape and was leading the Kadima party, which he founded just prior to his incapacitation. Sharon's condition raised immediate concerns regarding the future direction of Israel under Olmert's leadership, who was previously the deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Trade and Industry. Despite the abrupt transition, Olmert was expected to steer the government through challenging times, including ongoing conflicts in the region. Sharon’s health had been precarious since he suffered his first stroke in January 2006, which resulted in significant pressure on the Israeli political framework. This subsequent stroke effectively sidelined Sharon from active leadership and necessitated the handover of responsibilities to Olmert, who was suddenly faced with governing a nation rife with challenges both internally and externally. His appointment as acting Prime Minister brought concerns regarding the continuity of Sharon's policies and the implications of his own leadership style.