6 quotes to remember Ariel Sharon

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calls him “among the greatest” military commanders in Jewish history.

President Barack Obama says he was “a leader who dedicated his life to the State of Israel.”

Prime Minister David Cameron heralds him as “one of the most significant figures in Israeli history, and as prime minister he took brave and controversial decisions in pursuit of peace.” 

As Israel mourns Ariel Sharon, here are some of his own more seminal quotes.

Ariel Sharon stands near Temple Mount, July 2000 (Flash90)

I am the last person who would divide Jerusalem. I have said this many times. I don’t plan to discuss any division of Jerusalem.

Former chief of staff Haim Bar-Lev, center left, consults with Maj. Gen. Ariel Sharon (with bandage) and Moshe Dayan, center, during the Yom Kippur War. (photo credit: GPO/Flash90)

As one who participated in all the wars of the state of Israel, I saw the horror of wars. I saw the fear of wars. I saw my best friends being killed in battles. I was seriously injured twice

Ariel Sharon working on his Sycamore Farm.

 I would like to be on the farm. To ride the horses. To watch the cattle, and the plantations, and the beautiful vegetables that my sons are growing there. I would like it. I am one of those who do not have to worry about what I am doing later. I love the fields.

The strength that I have comes from irrigating the citrus plantation, ploughing in the vineyard, guarding the melon fields at night. I believe that’s what gave me the strength.

Ariel Sharon and his wife, Lily at an Air Force event

My strength never came from political echelons, it came from the family. And from the fields and the lands and the flowers and everything I see there. My strength came from there.

Ariel Sharon stands at the Suez Canal during the Yom Kippur War.

I am 73 years old. I’ve seen everything. I’ve met the kings, the queens, the presidents, I’ve been around the world. I have one thing that I would like to do: to try to reach peace

** Compiled by Sarah Tuttle-Singer **