Bahrain’s crown prince, Sheikh Salman bin Hamad al-Khalifa, was appointed prime minister after the death of his great uncle, who had held the post since independence in 1971.
Prince Khalifa bin Salman al-Khalifa, the world’s longest-serving prime minister, died at the age of 84 while undergoing medical treatment in the United States, state media announced.
Prince Khalifa’s burial will take place after his remains have been transported home, and in line with novel coronavirus restrictions, only a limited number of relatives will attend.
The country will hold a week of official mourning, during which flags will be flown at half-mast. Government ministries and departments will be closed for three days.
