Qatar's modernizing former emir, Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, dies at 74

Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former emir credited with shaping modern Qatar, has died at the age of 74, the Gulf state's government announced. He led the nation from 1995 to 2013, a period of dramatic transformation.

Upon seizing power in a bloodless palace coup against his father in 1995, Al Thani inherited a small emirate with limited influence and state coffers. Over his 18-year rule, Qatar significantly expanded its diplomatic reach, becoming a key regional and global player. The country emerged as one of the world's foremost liquefied natural gas exporters, and Al Thani was instrumental in founding the influential news network Al Jazeera in 1996.

His tenure also coincided with Qatar's controversial hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. During his time as the strongman in Doha, the decision to award the tournament to Qatar was marred by corruption allegations. International media and human rights organizations also reported on forced labor and human rights violations during the construction of World Cup stadiums.

Al Thani stepped down in 2013, a move that surprised many, and had rarely appeared in public since. He was succeeded by his son, Tamim, one of his 24 children from three marriages. The Al Thani family has ruled Qatar since the mid-19th century, maintaining the emirate's independence after it ended its British protectorate status in 1971.