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Former Qatar ruler Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies at 74 after transforming nation into global power
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former emir of Qatar who transformed the small Gulf nation into a major force in global diplomacy, media and investment, has died at age 74.
Hamad ruled Qatar for 18 years before stepping down in 2013 and handing power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in a rare voluntary transfer of leadership in the region. His decision marked a historic moment, as power transitions in many Middle Eastern nations have often followed death, political upheaval or conflict.
During his reign, Sheikh Hamad helped reshape Qatar from a relatively little-known country into an international hub. Under his leadership, Qatar expanded its global influence through investments, diplomacy, sports and media, including the creation of Al Jazeera, which became one of the most influential news networks in the Arab world.
Qatar’s growing influence brought international attention and criticism. The country developed close relationships with nations and groups across the political spectrum, including Iran, Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood, while Al Jazeera faced accusations from critics who claimed its coverage reflected the interests of Qatar’s leadership.
Sheikh Hamad also pursued international recognition through major sporting and economic projects. His government secured Qatar’s bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, expanded Qatar Airways into a global airline and supported major investments in sports, including sponsorships and ownership stakes involving some of the world’s most prominent teams.
Before becoming emir, Sheikh Hamad attended Britain’s Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, served as Qatar’s defense minister and became crown prince in the late 1970s. After taking power in 1995 following a bloodless palace coup against his father, he moved quickly to modernize the country and increase its global presence.
As a diplomatic leader, Sheikh Hamad positioned Qatar as a mediator in international conflicts. The country played roles in negotiations involving Sudan, Lebanon, Palestinian factions and Afghanistan, while also maintaining relationships with both regional rivals and Western powers.
Qatar’s foreign policy under Sheikh Hamad sometimes created tensions with neighboring countries. Its support for Islamist movements and independent approach to regional affairs contributed to a diplomatic crisis in which Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt imposed a blockade on Qatar that lasted several years.
Following his retirement, Sheikh Hamad remained a respected figure in Qatar and continued to be associated with the country’s rapid transformation. His legacy includes turning Qatar into a wealthy and influential global player while reshaping its role in international affairs.
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