Former Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies: Reactions - Al Jazeera
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar who ruled from 1995 to 2013, has died at age 74. Global leaders are mourning the leader, who is credited with transforming Qatar into a modern economic and political power.
Why it matters
His death marks the end of an era for a key Middle Eastern geopolitical player, potentially influencing future regional stability and diplomatic relations.
After Sheikh Hamad’s death, global leaders offer condolences, praise his legacy and Qatar’s growth.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, known as the father emir of Qatar, ruled the Gulf country for 18 years [File: Handout/The Amiri Diwan] By Al Jazeera Staff Published On 12 Jul 2026 12 Jul 2026 | Updated: 15 hours ago Updated: 15 hours ago Former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani , who ruled Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013, has died at the age of 74, the government announced.
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