Upon retirement from the military , Sharon entered politics , joining the Likud party , and served in a number of ministerial posts in Likud-led governments in 1977 – 92 and 1996 – 99 . As Minister of Defense , he directed the 1982 Lebanon War . An official enquiry found that he bore " personal responsibility " for the Sabra and Shatila massacre and recommended that he be removed as Defense Minister . His role in the massacre led to him being known as the " Butcher of Beirut " among Arabs
Sabra and Shatila massacre
Sabra and Shatila massacre
Ariel Sharon