Doha, Qatar – The Qatari Amiri Diwan announced on Sunday the death of the Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who led the State of Qatar from 1995 to 2013, before handing over power to the current Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is considered one of the most prominent leaders in modern Qatari history, his name associated with a period of political, economic, and developmental transformations in the country, as well as the strengthening of its regional and international presence.
The Amiri Diwan is expected to issue a statement in the coming hours detailing the funeral and mourning ceremonies, as well as declaring official mourning and outlining the procedures to be followed. Immediately after the announcement of the death, reactions and messages of condolence poured in from Arab and international figures and leaders, amidst widespread grief in both official and public circles.
