Sharon 'opens eyes for first time since stroke'

Israeli media reported that Prime Minister Ariel Sharon opened his eyes today for the first time since suffering a massive stroke on January 4.

Army Radio cited unidentified close associates of Sharon’s as saying there were indications the prime minister recognised people around him.

Sharon’s advisers said they had no reliable confirmation of reports that Sharon had opened his eyes, which first appeared on the Yediot Ahronot newspaper website. Hospital officials weren’t immediately available for comment.

Yesterday, Sharon underwent a tracheotomy, and outside experts said that procedure, coupled with his persistent comatose state, indicated brain damage had been extensive.