Yitzhak Shamir

Date of Birth: October 15, 1915

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: June 30, 2012

Biography

Yitzhak Shamir was an Israeli politician who served as the seventh Prime Minister of Israel, holding office from 1983 to 1984 and from 1986 to 1992. Born in Ruzhany, Poland (now Belarus), Shamir immigrated to Palestine in 1935. He was involved in the Jewish underground movement, and later joined the Lehi (Stern Gang), a Zionist paramilitary organization, eventually becoming one of its leaders. After Israel’s independence, he joined the Mossad, the national intelligence agency. Shamir entered politics in the early 1960s, joining the Herut movement led by Menachem Begin. He was elected to the Knesset in 1973 and became Speaker of the Knesset in 1977. He served as Foreign Minister from 1980 to 1983, during which time he played a significant role in the peace process with Egypt. Shamir succeeded Begin as Prime Minister in 1983, and his tenure was marked by a hardline stance on security issues and a strong opposition to territorial concessions. His policies helped shape the modern state of Israel. Shamir retired from politics in 1996, but remained a prominent figure in Israeli public life until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about Yitzhak Shamir

1. Yitzhak Shamir was one of the leaders of the Lehi (Stern Gang), a Zionist paramilitary group that operated in Palestine during the British mandate.

2. He served two non-consecutive terms as Prime Minister of Israel, from 1983 to 1984 and from 1986 to 1992.

3. Shamir was a member of the Mossad, Israel’s national intelligence agency, before entering politics.

4. He played a significant role in the peace process with Egypt, serving as Foreign Minister during the finalization of the Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty.

5. Shamir was known for his hardline stance on security and opposition to territorial concessions, earning him a reputation as a staunch defender of Israeli sovereignty.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Yitzhak Shamir

1. “The past leaders of our movement left us a clear message: Never again will we be led like sheep to the slaughter.”

2. “For the sake of our future, I am ready to take any risk and make any sacrifice, but I will never compromise on the security of Israel.”

3. “We must preserve our national unity as the apple of our eye.”

4. “We will fight terror like there is no peace, and we will pursue peace like there is no terror.”

5. “The Land of Israel is the birthplace of the Jewish people.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Yitzhak Shamir’s net worth was modest, primarily derived from his government salary and pensions. He did not amass significant personal wealth during his lifetime.