President Obama says Ariel Sharon ‘dedicated his life' to Israel, sends ‘condolences’ to leader’s family in statement.
President Obama expressed sorrow about the death of Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon on Saturday, joining other United States and world leaders in commenting on the life and passing of Sharon.
“On behalf of the American people, Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to the family of former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and to the people of Israel on the loss of a leader who dedicated his life to the State of Israel,” the president said.
“We reaffirm our unshakable commitment to Israel's security and our appreciation for the enduring friendship between our two countries and our two peoples.”
.............."The State of Israel bows its head over the passing of former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon," current Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement, expressing "deep sorrow" over the news.
"His memory will forever be held in the heart of the nation," Netanyahu said.
.........Sharon was "a brave soldier and a daring leader who loved his nation and his nation loved him," said President of the State of Israel Shimon Peres, a longtime friend and rival.
"He was one of Israel's great protectors and most important architects, who knew no fear and certainly never feared vision."
......In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister David Cameron said:
"Ariel Sharon is one of the most significant figures in Israeli history and as prime minister he took brave and controversial decisions in pursuit of peace, before he was so tragically incapacitated. Israel has today lost an important leader."
......Russian President Vladimir Putin
"highly praised Ariel Sharon's personal qualities and his activities to protect Israel's interests, noting a high respect for him among compatriots and his high authority in the international arena.
..........United Nations spokesman said that Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was "saddened" by Sharon's death.
"Prime Minister Sharon will be remembered for his political courage and determination to carry through with the painful and historic decision to withdraw Israeli settlers and troops from the Gaza Strip. His successor faces the difficult challenge of realising the aspirations of peace between the Israeli and Palestinian people," a UN statement said.
.......Carl Bildt, Sweden's foreign minister, posted on Twitter:
"Ariel Sharon was a great leader of Israel. A brilliant military commander, but also a wise statesman seeing the necessity of peace."
......“Ariel Sharon's journey was Israel’s journey,” Secretary of State John Kerry said.
“The dream of Israel was the cause of his life, and he risked it all to live that dream. … During his years in politics, it is no secret that there were times the United States had differences with him. But whether you agreed or disagreed with his positions … you admired the man who was determined to ensure the security and survival of the Jewish State.”
.......Bill and Hillary Clinton praised Sharon as leader who "who gave his life to Israel."
In a statement, the former US president and his wife, the ex-secretary of state said: "It was an honour to work with him, argue with him, and watch him always trying to find the right path for his beloved country."
"Ariel Sharon gave his life to Israel - to bring it into being, to sustain and preserve it, and at the end of his long service, to create a new political party committed to both a just peace and lasting security," they added.
........"Laura and I join our friends in Israel and around the world in mourning the loss,” said former President George W. Bush, commenting for himself and his wife.
“He was a warrior for the ages and a partner in seeking security for the Holy Land and a better, peaceful Middle East.”
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