Global Tributes Paid to Qatar's Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

World leaders and communities across continents observed solemn tributes on Monday following the death of Qatar’s former Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled the Gulf state from 1995 until his abdication in 2013. In Gaza, the Hamas‑run administration ordered a three‑minute silence at noon, lowered public building flags to half‑mast, and broadcast a televised statement praising the Emir’s humanitarian aid to the Strip during his tenure. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a condolence note highlighting his contributions to infrastructure projects and medical assistance that benefitted Gaza’s residents.

In New Delhi, the Qatari Embassy hosted a formal remembrance ceremony attended by senior Indian diplomats, members of the Indian diaspora, and officials from the Ministry of External Affairs. Speakers emphasized the Emir’s role in strengthening Qatar‑India economic ties, particularly in energy and trade, and the Indian government issued an official communiqué expressing “deep sorrow” and reaffirming its commitment to the bilateral partnership. Similar gestures were reported in Riyadh, Cairo and London, where flags were lowered and statements of condolence were issued by heads of state and foreign ministries. The coordinated global response underscores Sheikh Hamad’s lasting influence on regional diplomacy and development initiatives.