February 7, 1999: King of Jordan Hussein bin Talal dies. The world mourns Jordan s King Hussein saluting him as one of the great leaders and peacemakers of the 20th century . King Hussein’s death after nearly 50 years in power resounded through the Middle East with several Arab states declaring periods of official mourning. Egypt, which apart from Jordan is the only Arab country to have signed a peace agreement with Israel announced three days of national mourning, mirroring the period of full formal mourning in Jordan itself. President Hosni Mubarak recalled the monarch’s bravery in working for peace in the Middle East. US President Bill Clinton described Hussein as a “friend and inspiration” and praised him as a force for peace. “When peace finally comes to the Middle East, his name will be inscribed upon it,” Mr. Clinton said. Ezer Weizman, President of Israel described the 63-year-old king as “a brave soldier who fought for peace”

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