Kuwait Emir Sheikh Nawaf Bid Farewell as World Leaders Convey Condolences
The funeral of Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Sabah took place on Sunday, drawing world leaders to pay their respects and engage with the newly appointed ruler of the Gulf state.
Sheikh Nawaf’s successor, Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Sabah, 83, was visibly emotional at the prayer service attended by the ruling Al Sabah family and Kuwait’s parliament speaker.
Having assumed de facto rule in late 2021 due to Sheikh Nawaf’s declining health, Sheikh Meshal is anticipated to uphold key Kuwaiti foreign policies, emphasizing support for Gulf Arab unity, Western alliances, and strong ties with Riyadh.
Kuwait Emir, Sheikh Nawaf, reigned for 3 years
Sheikh Nawaf’s relatively brief three-year reign was marked by health challenges. His predecessor and brother, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah, shaped Kuwait’s foreign policy for 14 years. Sheikh Nawaf, aged 86 at the time of his death, served the nation for six decades in various capacities, including as minister of defense, interior, and labor.
The late emir was laid to rest at Sulaibikhat cemetery following prayers at Bilal bin Rabah mosque. Dignitaries such as U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Jordan’s King Abdullah, and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani arrived to offer their condolences, underscoring the global significance of Sheikh Nawaf’s legacy.
World Leaders Mourn Kuwait Emir, Sheikh Nawaf.Â
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, is set to express condolences on behalf of President Ebrahim Raisi, emphasizing bilateral relations during meetings with senior Kuwait officials.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, expressed best wishes to Kuwait’s new ruler and pledged collaboration to enhance Gulf cooperation.
Sheikh Nawaf’s death marks a loss for Kuwait, with citizens mourning a leader known for his humility and inclusive approach. The late emir’s successor, Sheikh Meshal, is expected to continue efforts to strengthen ties between the government and parliament, fostering political and economic prosperity.
While Sheikh Meshal assumes leadership, Kuwait reflects on the transition and looks toward the future. The constitution dictates that the emir selects his successor, subject to approval by both the ruling family and parliament.
As Kuwait navigates this significant change in leadership, the world watches, recognizing the importance of continuity and stability in the Gulf region.
