Emir of Qatar since 2013, shaping modern Qatar
Leaders at the Evian summit are pushing to finalise a framework with Iran as US President Trump attends talks. Attendees include Modi, Zelensky and Sisi, while South Africa was disinvited over Gaza policy.
President Donald Trump has signaled he is open to sharing the U.S.-Iran memorandum with Congress for review as talks on extending a ceasefire and negotiating Tehran’s nuclear program move forward. A signing ceremony is planned in Geneva, with ongoing negotiations to resolve remaining details.
Technical-level talks mediated by Qatar and Pakistan have continued between Iran and U.S. teams in Doha and Geneva to implement the Islamabad memorandum. Delegations have agreed a monitoring channel, discussed phased release of frozen Iranian funds and arrangements for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, while disagreements persist over inspections and control of the strait.
Iran has maintained indirect talks with the United States via mediators in Doha, as both sides pursue a ceasefire extension and wider settlement. Officials say progress is limited, with key issues including the Strait of Hormuz, frozen assets, and Iran’s nuclear programme continuing to complicate negotiations. Oil prices have fallen as optimism grows about delaying further conflict.
French President Emmanuel Macron has visited Damascus to discuss strengthening bilateral relations as Syria seeks reconstruction after years of civil war. He has met Syrian officials and plans to attend a NATO summit in Ankara, highlighting Europe’s interest in re-engaging with Damascus amid regional stability efforts.
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.
Qatar has announced four days of national mourning after the death of Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled from 1995 to 2013 and transformed the small emirate into a major regional power. Crowds and dignitaries have gathered in Lusail for funeral prayers and tributes, while the new emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, receives mourners and foreign leaders.
The World Cup final between Argentina and Spain is set to feature 30 bespoke championship rings for the winners, with 1,996 rings for fans. Donald Trump is attending and will present the trophy, a move that has fueled controversy over the tournament’s political optics. Balogun’s suspension reversal is central to ongoing debates about integrity and influence in the event.