Iran FM Araghchi visits Qatar to offer condolences on former emir's death

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi departed for Doha on Sunday to meet with Qatari officials, according to the Iranian Foreign Ministry. The visit is aimed at offering condolences following the death of former Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, and delivering messages of sympathy to Qatar's leadership.

Earlier on Sunday, Araghchi extended his deep condolences to the government and people of Qatar in a statement. "With the utmost sadness and sorrow, we offer our condolences on the passing of the Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. We express our most sincere condolences and deepest sympathy to His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the honorable Al Thani ruling family, and the brotherly nation of Qatar. We pray to Almighty God to grant the deceased His boundless mercy and forgiveness, and to bestow patience and solace upon his family and loved ones," Araghchi wrote.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former emir of Qatar and father of the country's current ruler, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, died on Saturday at the age of 74 after an illness. He ruled Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013, overseeing a period of significant economic growth and modernization.

According to Mehr News Agency, Araghchi's visit underscores the close ties between Iran and Qatar, as the two countries have maintained diplomatic relations and cooperation on regional issues. The Iranian foreign minister's trip is expected to include meetings with senior Qatari officials, including the Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.