In 1956, Sharon was rebuked after he engaged his troops in what his commanders regarded as unnecessary and unplanned battle with Egyptian forces at Mitla Pass in Sinai Peninsula. Sharon was placed in charge of curbing terrorism in Gaza Strip in June 1971. More than 100 suspected militants were killed and hundreds detained. Palestinians denounced harsh campaign, but Israelis saw it as success. As government minister in 1970s, '80s and early '90s, Sharon led push to build dozens of Jewish settlements in West Bank and Gaza Strip, despite Palestinian and international protest.
Settlements are one of most contentious issues in current peace negotiations.
As defense minister, Sharon engineered Israel's 1982 invasion of Lebanon. It was portrayed as quick, limited strike to drive Palestinian fighters from Israel's northern border. However, Israeli troops advanced to outskirts of Beirut and war escalated. Israeli-allied Christian militia killed hundreds of Palestinians at refugee camps in west Beirut, sparking international outrage that led to Sharon losing his job. Loyal supporters call him one of Israel's greatest war heroes, a natural leader in times of crisis.