GAZA, Palestine, December 19 (IPC + Agencies) - - Arial Sharon, Israel's 77-year-old prime minister is expected to remain in hospital for several days, after being taken to Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem last night feeling fainted and apparently briefly losing consciousness.

Israeli sources said that Sharon felt frail and passed out, and then he was taken by his car to hospital. He was not able to get off the car standing on his feet; he was ushered the hospital carried on a stretcher.

Doctors at Hadassah Hospital said he underwent medical examinations, including a brain scan, after he suffered a minor stroke.

Bole Slav Goldman, Mr. Sharon's personal physician, said he would "be in hospital for a few days for sure" after being given some "medication to thin his blood. There is no reason for fear."

Rena Matslieh, correspondent of Israel T.V, channel 2, said that any change of Sharon's health would affect the political map in Israel. She also said that if something happens to him, Ehud Aulmert, his vice would act for him.

President Abbas, sent Sharon a message whishing him speedy recovery.