The world says goodbye to Sharon: "Hero of his people - a soldier and a statesman"

Leaders from around the world have responded in the last hours to the passing of the 11th Prime Minister of Israel, Ariel Sharon z"l, at the age of 85.

U.S. President Barack Obama issued a notice on the death of Ariel Sharon, and sent his condolences to his family and the citizens of Israel, "the loss of a leader who dedicated his life to the State of Israel. While Israel says goodbye to Prime Minister Sharon, we join the Israeli people and respect his commitment to his country " he noted.
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U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry declared: "He wanted to change the course of history toward peace , even it meant to test the patience of his supporters over the years and the borders of itself."

German Chancellor Angela Merkel eulogized Sharon and noted that "with his courageous decision to withdraw from Gaza, he took a historic step towards peace with the Palestinians and a two state solution." German Foreign Minister Frank- Walter Steinmeier added: "Sharon's last battle is over now. From the beginning he was a tireless protector for his country."

Russian President Vladimir Putin praised the "character and actions" of former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Mun noted that Sharon was "a hero to his people, first as a soldier and later as a statesman." While former U.S. President Bill Clinton said that Sharon "gave his life for Israel."

British Prime Minister David Cameron sent his condolences. "Israel has lost one of the most prominent figures in its history. As prime minister he made brave and controversial decisions for his pursuit of peace." French President Francois Hollande declared that Sharon was "a major player in the history of the country."

However, the Palestinian Authority accepted the death of Sharon with celebration and joy. Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri said that the death of former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon is "an example to all tyrants."

Rajoub added: "Sharon was a criminal responsible for the murder of Yasser Arafat." Rajoub complained that Sharon was not tried in The Hague. Mustafa Barghouti joined the declaration: "We do not celebrate a person's death, but, unfortunately, Mr. Sharon has not left good memories amongst the Palestinians."

'בחדרי' גם ברשתות החברתיות - הצטרפו!