Death and state funeral of Hafez al-Assad
Hafez al-Assad, the 18th president of Syria, died from a heart attack on 10 June 2000 at the age of 69.[1][2] His funeral was held three days later in Damascus, and he was buried in a mausoleum in his hometown Qardaha in Latakia Governorate, beside his eldest son Bassel al-Assad who died in 1994.[3][4]
He was succeeded by vice president Abdul Halim Khaddam in a caretaker capacity until presidential elections were held. Several national leaders paid tribute as the leader's body lay in state in the People's Palace.[5][6]
Following Assad's death, 40 days of mourning was declared in Syria and 7 days in Lebanon.[7] Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Palestine, Libya, Iran, Morocco, United Arab Emirates, Yemen, Kuwait and Qatar announced three days of national mourning.[8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19] His funeral was held three days later.[20]
Illness and death[edit]
President Al-Assad's health began to deteriorate in late 1983 due to his diabetes and varicose veins.[21] He was taken to Al-Shami Hospital in Damascus and placed under intensive care.[21] Then he transferred his powers during his absence to a committee consisting of five members from his close circle.[22]
