Countries across the Gulf, the Arab world, and South Asia lower their flags and honour Qatar’s Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.
The passing of Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani has prompted official mourning measures across the Gulf, the wider Arab region, and South Asia, with governments lowering flags and paying tribute to the leader who oversaw one of the most pivotal periods in Qatar’s modern history.
Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013, during which the country underwent an economic and diplomatic transformation and emerged as an increasingly influential regional and international actor.
Across the Gulf, the UAE declared four days of official mourning and ordered flags to be flown at half mast. Kuwait announced the same period, lowering flags nationwide and at its diplomatic missions abroad while paying tribute to Sheikh Hamad’s legacy.
Jordan declared four days of mourning at the Hashemite Royal Court and paid tribute to Sheikh Hamad’s leadership and legacy.
Lebanon announced official mourning until 15 July, with flags lowered at public institutions. Lebanese officials remembered Father Amir as a great friend of the country, reflecting the close ties he helped foster between Doha and Beirut.
In Palestine, three days of official mourning were announced, with flags lowered at government headquarters and public institutions. The decision came as Palestinians remembered Sheikh Hamad’s longstanding support for their people and cause.
Meanwhile, Pakistan declared Monday a day of official mourning, ordering national flags to be lowered across the country in honour of the late Father Amir.
India also declared Monday a day of national mourning, with the national flag flown at half mast on government buildings across the country and official entertainment suspended. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader who transformed Qatar and strengthened its global standing, as well as a valued friend of India.
As more countries declare mourning and leaders continue to send condolences to Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the ruling family and the people of Qatar, the scale of the response reflects Sheikh Hamad’s place as the architect of modern Qatar and one of the most pivotal figures in the country’s history.
