Friends, family and admirers worldwide are mourning the death of former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon. Sharon died Saturday at the age of 85.
Sherrie R. Savett, president of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, released a statement on Sharon’s death.
“On behalf of the Greater Philadelphia Jewish community, we extend our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Prime Minister Ariel Sharon to his family and to our brothers and sisters in Israel,” she said.
Alex Stroker, interim CEO of the Jewish Federation, says that Sharon “played a role in nearly every decisive event in modern Israel’s history.”
“Israelis and Jews around the world will continue to benefit from his many years of distinguished service as Prime Minister and in other leadership positions he held throughout his distinguished career,” he said.
A spokesperson for the Consulate General of Israel to the Mid-Atlantic Region also released a statement on Sharon's death.
"Sharon, who served in office between the years 2001-2006 has passed away today in Israel," the spokesperson wrote. "We will always remember Sharon's vast contribution to the State of Israel throughout his numerous years of service and his courage and ability to take difficult decision, always putting Israel's interest first. His memory will be always blessed and may he rest in peace."
Read more on the life and legacy of Ariel Sharon:
- Ariel Sharon, Israel's Bulldozer in Politics, Dies at 85
- Body of Israel's Ariel Sharon to Lie in State
- Major Events in the Life of Ariel Sharon
Photo Credit: AP