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Palestinians in Gaza celebrate Sharon's death

While many Palestinians in Gaza are glad to see Sharon pass, several factions have expressed disappointment at the Israeli leader's dying without facing justice for crimes committed.

Palestinians step on crossed-out posters depicting late former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon as they celebrate his passing in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip January 11, 2014.  Sharon, the trailblazing warrior-statesman who transformed the region and was reviled by Arab foes over generations of conflict, died on Saturday at 85 eight years after suffering a massive stroke. Palestinians in Gaza were handing out sweets to passersby and motorists in celebration of Sharon's passing. REUTERS/Ibraheem
Palestinians step on crossed-out posters depicting late former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon as they mark his passing, Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Jan. 11, 2014. — REUTERS/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — Former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon left painful memories in the minds of thousands of Palestinians. He became known as "the butcher" in many circles, in light of his indifference toward the killing and displacement of Palestinians, especially in the Palestinian camps.

An atmosphere of joy and gloating prevailed in the Gaza Strip as news arrived of Sharon's death on Jan. 11 — after having spent eight years in a coma in an Israeli hospital. He is considered one of the most murderous Israeli figures against the Palestinians.

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