Qatar's transformative former emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies at 74

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who served as Qatar's emir and played a pivotal role in elevating the small Gulf state to prominence in diplomacy, media, and investment, has passed away at the age of 74. State media confirmed his death but did not disclose the cause. In June 2013, he made a historic decision to relinquish power to his son after 18 years, breaking with tradition. During his reign, Qatar established the Al Jazeera news network, purchased London’s Harrods, and secured the 2022 FIFA World Cup hosting rights. His foreign policy, marked by alliances with Iran, Hamas, and the Muslim Brotherhood, occasionally created tensions with both regional and Western partners. At the World Cup's opening, he was met with resounding applause from the Qatari crowd.