New York – The Zionist Organization of America (ZOA) expresses its great sorrow over the sudden serious stroke and cerebral hemorrhage suffered by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon. The ZOA community is praying for his full recovery.

ZOA President Morton A. Klein said, “The entire ZOA family are shocked and saddened over this sudden deterioration of Prime Minister Sharon’s health. We wish him a Refuah Shelaima, and speedy recovery.

“The P.M. has been a great and distinguished fighter for Israel in all its wars. He was also wounded in battle. He was and is a great proponent of Aliyah and always expressed his great love for Jerusalem to remain the undivided sovereign capitol of the Jewish State of Israel.

“I have known Prime Minister Sharon for over a decade and always marvelled at his boundless energy, strength and stamina. I was also honored and privileged to have frequently been called upon to personally introduce him to the audience of Jewish leaders at the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations annual trip to Israel.

“We also wish the best of luck to Acting Prime Minister Ehud Ohlmert, with whom we’ve always had a warm and close relationship. We pray that with the help of almighty G-d, Mr. Ohlmert will be successful in fulfilling his new awesome responsibilities while P.M. Sharon is incapacitated.

“May G-d almighty bless and watch over Israel and its people during this difficult time.”