Some sad news out of Israel: former prime minister Ariel Sharon has been listed in critical condition, and his organs are failing, causing some to speculate that the end is nigh for the politician.

According to CNN, Amir Maron, spokesman for Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer, Israel, has said there has been no change in Sharon's condition since news broke Wednesday that his health had worsened in recent days. "His condition continues to be critical, and doctors note a number of central systems in his body are not functioning," Maron said. He also said Sharon's close family members are by his bedside.

USA Today, in addition, is reporting that "the 85-year-old Sharon, one of Israel's most iconic and controversial figures, has been in a coma since suffering a devastating stroke in January 2006. At the time, he was prime minister and at the height of his political power. Sharon's career has stretched across Israel's 65-year history: as one of Israel's most famous generals, Sharon was known for bold tactics and an occasional refusal to obey orders. As a politician he became known as "the bulldozer" -- a man contemptuous of his critics while also capable of getting things done. Sharon is credited with helping turn the tide of the 1973 Mideast war when Arab armies launched a surprise attack on Israel on the solemn fasting day of Yom Kippur, causing large Israeli casualties. He led an Israeli force across the Suez Canal, trapping part of the Egyptian army and turning the war in Israel's favor. A prominent hard-line voice over the decades, he was elected prime minister in 2001."

As for why the family is keeping Sharon on life support despite his condition, the same report also states that even though he is in a coma, he can still "move his fingers occasionally."

We will keep you up-to-date with breaking news about Sharon's condition as it's reported.