World grapples with Sharon legacy

The former prime minister of Israel, Ariel Sharon, died on Saturday at the age of 85. As arguably one of the most controversial leaders of modern times, Sharon's death leaves a complicated legacy behind. Western leaders praised his controversial decision making in the face of conflict and strive for peace in the Middle East. However, Sharon's regional foes celebrated the death of the man they considered a "tyrant" and "criminal". The social minister of Lebanon told a local newspaper that "...there was less evil in the world" with Sharon gone. As defense minister during the Lebanon war, Sharon was held responsible for the massacre of  hundreds of Palestinians in the capital of Beirut. Sharon was fired after the incident although he claimed that he didn't know the attack was coming. Frequently pitted against Yassar Arafat, Sharon's military background was his strength. He was a soldier during the 1948, 1967, and 1973 independence wars. During the 70s and 90s , he championed the building of now infamous Israeli settlements in the West Bank and Gaza. President Obama's only comment on his death was that the United States would continue to support Israel and their interests. President Vladimir Putin of Russia praised Sharon as a person and for his friendship. Although his time as a leader was anything but static, Sharon's legacy will most likely not be understood until more time has passed.

--Emily Goodfellow (PSC 222)