Former Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Dies at 74

The Amiri Diwan of Qatar has announced the death of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who served as the nation's leader from 1995 until his abdication in 2013. Widely recognized as a pivotal figure in the creation of modern Qatar, Sheikh Hamad passed away at the age of 74. His 18-year reign was characterized by substantial economic expansion, increased international influence, and transformative advancements that solidified Qatar's economic and political position on the global stage.

The official statement from the Amiri Diwan, shared on social media, expressed profound sorrow: “With hearts steadfast in faith in God’s decree and destiny, the Amiri Diwan mourns the great loss to the nation of the late – may God have mercy on him – His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.”

International Tributes and Condolences

Following the announcement, numerous heads of state and international organizations extended their sympathies to Qatar's leadership and its people, reflecting on Sheikh Hamad's legacy.

Arab League

Nabil Fahmy, Secretary-General of the Arab League, conveyed his deepest condolences to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the current Emir of Qatar, and to the Qatari populace. Fahmy prayed for divine mercy upon the late Emir and for solace for his family and the nation.

Egypt

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi offered his heartfelt condolences to the State of Qatar. In a statement, President el-Sisi acknowledged Sheikh Hamad's passing and prayed for stability and security to prevail in Qatar, emphasizing the shared grief among sisterly nations.

India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sadness, describing Sheikh Hamad as a “visionary leader who guided Qatar to great levels of development and prosperity.” Modi recalled his meeting with the former Emir in February 2024 and extended his condolences to the Al Thani family and the people of Qatar, highlighting Sheikh Hamad as a valued friend.

Iraq

Iraqi President Nizar Amedi conveyed the Republic of Iraq's condolences to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. In a statement released by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Amedi acknowledged the profound sorrow over Sheikh Hamad's passing and underscored his enduring legacy and contributions to Qatar's progress, pledging Iraq's solidarity during this difficult time.

Jordan

King Abdullah II of Jordan also extended his condolences, expressing solidarity with Qatar. The monarch's statement offered prayers for Sheikh Hamad's soul and for the continued well-being of the State of Qatar and its people.

Lebanon

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam conveyed his sorrow, emphasizing Sheikh Hamad's consistent support for Lebanon, particularly during challenging periods. Salam lauded the late Emir's political and humanitarian efforts in fostering Lebanon's stability, extending his sympathies to Sheikh Tamim, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, and the Qatari people.

Libya

Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, Prime Minister of Libya’s internationally recognized Government of National Unity, offered his condolences to Qatar's leaders and citizens. His message expressed profound sadness and prayed for patience and solace for the Qatari royal family and its people.

Malaysia

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim paid tribute to Sheikh Hamad, recognizing him as a leader who transformed Qatar into a nation of global significance. Ibrahim highlighted the substantial economic growth and Qatar's expanded role in regional and international affairs during Sheikh Hamad's 18-year tenure.

Pakistan

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari expressed his “deep grief” and conveyed “heartfelt condolences” to Qatar’s government, leaders, and people.

Syria

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa extended his sincerest condolences to the State of Qatar, its government, and its people, praying for divine mercy upon Sheikh Hamad and for strength for his family and the nation.

Turkiye

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan conveyed profound sorrow, acknowledging Sheikh Hamad’s instrumental role in elevating the strategic partnership between Turkiye and Qatar. Erdogan noted the late Emir’s sincere efforts towards peace in the Islamic world, regional stability, and the welfare of the Qatari people, recalling their close collaboration during his time as Prime Minister.

United Arab Emirates

UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also offered his condolences to Sheikh Tamim and his family, praying for Sheikh Hamad's soul to rest in eternal peace and for comfort for his grieving family.

Source: Original Article