'Big bear of man' Sharon to be buried at ranch

The body of Ariel Sharon, Israel’s former prime minister and general will be brought to Israel’s parliament in Jerusalem where it will lie in state.

The Prime Minister’s office said in a statement early today that the coffin will be brought to the Knesset later in the day.

A state memorial is planned for tomorrow with the participation of Israeli and world leaders, it said. Afterwards Mr Sharon’s body will be taken by military convey for burial at his ranch.

Mr Sharon died yesterday aged 85. One of Israel’s most iconic and controversial figures, he had been in a coma for eight years after a devastating stroke incapacitated him at the peak of his political power.

President Barack Obama remembered former Mr Sharon’s “commitment to his country”, and vice president Joe Biden will lead the US delegation for the memorial service.

“We join with the Israeli people in honouring his commitment to his country,” Mr Obama said. He also used the occasion to reaffirm “our unshakeable commitment to Israel’s security”.

The president said: “We continue to strive for a lasting peace and security for the people of Israel.”

Mr Biden said he looked forward to the opportunity “to pay respects to the man and to pay tribute to the unshakeable partnership between the United States and Israel”.

Tributes poured in from secretary of state John Kerry, former presidents Bill Clinton and George W Bush and other US leaders.

Mr Kerry said he would never forget meeting “this big bear of a man” after Mr Sharon became prime minister.

“In his final years as prime minister, he surprised many in his pursuit of peace and, today, we all recognise, as he did, that Israel must be strong to make peace, and that peace will also make Israel stronger,” he said.

Since becoming America’s top diplomat last year, Mr Kerry has made 10 trips to the Middle East, including this month, in the hope of brokering a lasting peace between the Israelis and Palestinians.

“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,” said Mr Clinton.

Mr Bush, who held office simultaneously with Mr Sharon, called him a friend and “man of courage”.

He said: “He was a warrior for the ages and a partner in seeking security for the Holy Land and a better, peaceful Middle East.”