Former Emir of Qatar, shaped modern Gulf energy and diplomacy
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani has died at 74, Qatar's Amiri Diwan has announced. He has been credited with transforming Qatar into an energy and diplomatic power by expanding LNG production, founding Al Jazeera, building sovereign investment vehicles and stepping down voluntarily in 2013 to hand power to his son.
Iraq’s prime minister travels to Washington to deepen economic ties as the Strait of Hormuz remains closed and fighting between the US and Iran intensifies. Oil output, IMF talks, and potential US investment are on the table while Iran-backed groups push back against disarmament. Diplomatic prospects hinge on stabilizing energy flows and expanding state control over weapons.
The Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani has died at 74. Officials declare days of mourning; tens of thousands attend funeral prayers in Doha before burial at Lusail Cemetery. Sheikh Hamad abdicated in 2013, leaving a legacy of rapid development and international influence.
Qatar's late Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani has reshaped the nation's role through Gaza and Lebanon gestures, rebuilding aid, and a pivot to independent media and foreign policy that broadened regional influence.
The FIFA president has drawn support from several signatories ahead of next year’s vote, even as a revolt grows over a plan to sell World Cup stakes to private investors. European and regional federations have warned of consequences, and some signatories have withdrawn support amid governance concerns.