Bahrain's King Condolences to Qatar's Emir on the Passing of the Founding Emir: "I Have Lost a Brother and Friend Before He Was a Leader"

Bahraini King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa offered his sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies to Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, on the passing of the late Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, may God have mercy on him.

The Bahrain News Agency reported that this came in a statement by King Hamad bin Isa, who said, “With hearts steadfast in faith in God’s decree and destiny, and with profound sorrow and grief, we received the news of the passing of the late, may God have mercy on him, His Highness the Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away to the mercy of God early this morning.”

He continued, “Personally, I have lost today a brother and a friend, before he was a leader. I recall with pride the strong fraternal bond that connected me to him, may God have mercy on him, which was distinguished by a sincere brotherly friendship that endured for many years. We were united in official meetings, special programs, and trips we undertook together, which strengthened the brotherhood and friendship between us and had a profound impact on my heart. It was truly one of the most beautiful periods, filled with mutual affection and respect.”

The King of Bahrain said, “As we share with our brother, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the sisterly State of Qatar, the esteemed ruling family, and the beloved Qatari people, their great loss, we extend our sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies to His Highness the Emir and the dear people of Qatar for this heavy tragedy. We pray to Almighty God to envelop the deceased in His abundant mercy and pleasure, to grant him a spacious place in Paradise, and to inspire His brother, His Highness Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Al Thani family, his relatives, friends, and loved ones, with patience and solace.”

He added, “We express our full confidence that His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani will continue to carry the banner and complete the path of construction and progress laid down by the late Father Emir. We ask God to grant him success and guide his steps toward what is best for the sisterly State of Qatar and its loyal people.”