Still Here – A day after Sharon’s Stroke

Last Battle Ariel Sharon Jan 2006

16:05PM

The Yediot Ahronot headline says it all: “The Last Battle”. Today the media is covering every aspect of Ariel Sharon’s hospitalization and the Hemorrhagic Stroke he suffered. Hadasa Ein Kerem Hospital manager Shlomo Mor-Yosef in a recent announcement informed us that Sharon is under sedation and will remain in the position for at least the next 24 hours. He underwent 9 hours of surgery and he is in critical but stable condition.

The international media and the whole world is covering the events here. Some are already eulogizing Sharon, providing background pieces on his political history. They present a grim outlook and a chaotic time for Israel. Nervous investors in the Tel Aviv Stock exchange caused a drop of 5-6% in the early hours of the day but drops have stabilized. Trading volume did reach an all time record today.

Last night Ehud Olmert received the official transfer of power. He is the prime minister and will remain in that position in all likelihood until the elections March 28. Israel is a democratic country with a strong governing body and political process. Unlike some other western world countries it may have a rough, unpolished spirit and mannerism about it, but at the end of the day, the powers to be are reliable and level headed individuals. We are still here and we are not going anywhere. To all the doom prophets out there that are hyping the situation and are forecasting the demise of Israel and the hopes for peace – You are full of CRAP!

All through the night and during these events, Sharon’s staff and advisors behaved professionally and responsibly, providing frequent and accurate updates. They have learned from working with Sharon well. Keeping a level head and their eye on the ball, they continue to function and all government offices and activities are continuing as scheduled.

In a morning session Ehud Olmert made the announcement today of Sharon’s medical condition and his wishes for a speedy recovery. The overall feeling is one of cooperation and camaraderie. Benjamin Netanyahu and the Likud ministers have placed their resignation on hold until further notice. The Likud ministers were supposed to resign from government this week at Netanyahu’s demand.

The Arab world is not sad to see Sharon go. The Palestinian Authority’s official message is a wish for a speedy recovery but the street is different. Some celebrating and political leaders that say that his departure is a good thing. Better for Palestinian Israeli relations.
We watch the news and wait – but we’re all still fine, thank you.

16:22PM

In a press conference given by Shaul Mofaz, Minister of Defense, explained that all matters of security are being managed and that all through this difficult time all security and defense is being actively monitored and in full effect. The security ministry fully supports and stands at the service of the Prime Minister, Ehud Olmert.

Share and Enjoy: