Sharon 'does not leave good memories' says Barghouti

Israelis are beginning a short period of mourning for ex-Prime Minister Ariel Sharon who has died aged 85 of heart failure after eight years in a coma.

The public will pay their respects when his body lies in state on Sunday before a private burial on Monday.

Israeli and world figures have paid tribute to a man who fought in four major wars before taking to the political stage.

However Palestinian Legislative Council member Mustafa Barghouti said while no-one should gloat at his death, Mr Sharon had left "no good memories with Palestinians".