Israel being what it is , mr olmert 's political foes lost no time denouncing the prime minister 's failings as israelis sank into a collective despond about the disappointing showing of their army and the blunting of their country 's long-term deterrent power .
He had his moods of gloom , and fell into the slough of despond about once a week , to be hoisted out by patient rob or his mother , who understood when to let him alone and when to shake him up .