Israel’s former President, Prime Minister and elder statesman, Shimon Peres, died on Tuesday after having suffered a stroke two weeks earlier. He was 93.
Peres’ standing in the world of international politics, and the impact he had during his decades of public service, was evidenced by the tributes and condolences expressed by several world leaders, past and present, following his death.
In a statement, U.S. President Barack Obama mourned the passing of his “dear friend Shimon Peres,” hailing the Nobel Peace Prize winner’s “unshakeable moral foundation and unflagging optimism.”
Former Presidents Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush also released heartfelt tributes. “It was by his innate humanity, his decency, that Shimon inspired the world over and helped pave a path to peace,” Bush said.
American politicians on both sides of the aisle, including House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Democratic Party leader Nancy Pelosi, also expressed their condolences.
Read TIME’s exclusive interview with Peres on peace, war and Israel’s future here.
More Must-Reads from TIME
- Donald Trump Is TIME's 2024 Person of the Year
- Why We Chose Trump as Person of the Year
- Is Intermittent Fasting Good or Bad for You?
- The 100 Must-Read Books of 2024
- The 20 Best Christmas TV Episodes
- Column: If Optimism Feels Ridiculous Now, Try Hope
- The Future of Climate Action Is Trade Policy
- Merle Bombardieri Is Helping People Make the Baby Decision
Write to Rishi Iyengar at rishi.iyengar@timeasia.com