His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait, passed away at the age of 91. Sheikh Sabah ruled Kuwait since 2006 and directed its foreign policy for more than 50 years. This news was announced by his office on Tuesday. “With the utmost sadness and grief for the Kuwaiti people, the Islamic and Arab world and people of friendly nations, the Emiri Diwan mourn the death of Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait,” his office said.
Emir Sheikh Sabah Was Hospitalised In The US Since July
Known as a humanitarian champion, Sheikh Sabah was hospitalised in the US since July. He also underwent surgery for an undefined condition in Kuwait the same month. He was also known for balancing relations with Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, he was known for rebuilding links with Iraq and keeping an open dialogue with Iran.
Kuwait’s Cabinet later announced that Sheikh Sabah had been succeeded by his brother, the crown prince Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai paid condolences to the late leader.
“May Allah forgive the kind father of Kuwait. The heart of the Gulf, the Emir of humanity, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah. From God, we come and to Him, we return,” Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said in the tweet.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, also offered condolences to His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait.
Kuwait Has Announced 40-days of Mourning
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, also paid his respects.
UAE will observe three-day mourning, while Kuwait will observe 40-days mourning. Flags in the country will be at half-mast during this period.