Former Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies: Reactions

The Qatari government announced the death of former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled the country from 1995 until his abdication in 2013. His passing was marked by a statement from the Amiri Diwan, expressing profound loss to the nation.

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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.

Sheikh Hamad is widely credited as a principal architect of modern Qatar. His reign saw the nation achieve rapid economic growth, significant global expansion, and substantial developments that cemented its political and economic standing. He died on Sunday at the age of 74.

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Deepest condolences and sympathies to the sisterly State of Qatar, to its Emir, government, and people, on the passing of the late, by God’s permission, His Highness the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. We ask God to envelop him in His vast mercy and to perpetuate security and stability upon Qatar and its people. Verily, to God we belong and to Him we shall return.

World leaders offered their condolences. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi conveyed sympathies to Qatar's leaders and people, praying for security and stability for the nation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader who propelled Qatar to prosperity and recalled meeting him in February 2024.

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visionary leader who guided Qatar to great levels of development and prosperity

Jordan's King Abdullah II expressed solidarity with Qatar. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam highlighted the late emir's consistent support for Lebanon, particularly during crises, and lauded his political and humanitarian efforts to bolster the country's stability. Condolences were extended to the current Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the Qatari people.

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We extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies to my brother, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and to the brotherly people of the State of Qatar on the passing of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. We pray that Almighty God envelop him in His boundless mercy and grace, and preserve the State of Qatar and its people. Indeed, to God we belong and to Him we shall return.