IRIA News

Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-serving monarch, has died at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, her summer retreat. She was 96.

She died peacefully at her estate in Balmoral, Scotland on the afternoon of September 8, according to the Buckingham Palace statement.

With the Queen’s death, King Charles III immediately assumed the role of the British monarch, and his eldest son, Prince William, becomes heir to the throne. “The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family,” the new king, her eldest son Charles, said.

Elizabeth had been placed under medical supervision earlier Thursday and her doctors were concerned for her health and had recommended she remain under medical supervision.

Soon after the announcement was made, flags were lowered to half-mast as Londoners mourn Queen’s death. Hundreds of mourners gathered outside of Buckingham Palace in London to lay flowers and pay their respects.

“Rock on which modern Britain was built”

Liz Truss has paid tribute to the Queen, describing her as “the rock on which modern Britain was built”, whose death is a “huge shock” to the country and the world. “Through thick and thin, Queen Elizabeth II provided us with the stability and the strength that we needed. She was the very spirit of Great Britain – and that spirit will endure.”

The new prime minister praised the deceased monarch’s “extraordinary” achievements during her 70 years on the throne, saying her sense of duty had been a “personal inspiration” to her and to many Britons.

Elizabeth’s reign covered a period of enormous social, economic, technological, and political change. It saw the transformation of the once-global British Empire into a Commonwealth of 52 independent nations, and the UK’s entrance into and exit from the European Union. Fifteen UK prime ministers served under Elizabeth — from Winston Churchill on her accession to the throne in 1952 to Liz Truss, who was sworn in only two days before the monarch’s death.

World leaders and mourners pay tribute

The 96-year-old monarch visited more than 100 countries across six continents during her reign and was admired by people, politicians, and religious leaders everywhere. The news of her death stunned not only people in Britain but condolences poured in from leaders around the world. The mayor of Paris announced the lights of the Eiffel Tower would be turned off in honor of her passing.

United States: U.S. President Joe Biden mourned Queen Elizabeth II following her death and recalled her seven-decade reign. “Today, the thoughts and prayers of people all across the United States are with the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth in their grief,” the White House statement said. “We send our deepest condolences to the Royal Family, who are not only mourning their Queen, but their dear mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her legacy will loom large in the pages of British history, and in the story of our world.” American flags at the White House, other federal buildings, military facilities and embassies overseas will be flown at half-staff “until the day of internment.”

France: Emmanuel Macron, president of France, has posted a photograph of the Queen on his Twitter account. “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II embodied the British nation’s continuity and unity for over 70 years”, said the French President. “I remember her as a friend of France, a kind-hearted queen who has left a lasting impression on her country and her century.”

Canada: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote a heartfelt tribute. “It was with the heaviest of hearts that we learned of the passing of Canada’s longest-reigning Sovereign, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II” Trudeau said. “She was a constant presence in our lives – and her service to Canadians will forever remain an important part of our country’s history.”

NATO: The chief of NATO Jens Stoltenberg has expressed his deepest condolences. “Deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Over more than 70 years, she exemplified selfless leadership and public service,” Stoltenberg said. “My deepest condolences to the Royal Family, to our NATO Allies the United Kingdom and Canada, and to the people of the Commonwealth.”

Europe: European leaders mourned the Queen and paid sincere tribute to her. “Our thoughts are with the royal family and all those who mourn Queen Elizabeth II in the UK and worldwide,” tweeted European Council President Charles Michel. “Once called Elizabeth the Steadfast, she never failed to show us the importance of lasting values in a modern world with her service and commitment.”

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the Queen’s death left a “sense of loss in the lives of many” in the UK and throughout the world. “She witnessed war and reconciliation in Europe and beyond, and deep transformations of our planet and societies. She was a beacon of continuity throughout these changes, never ceasing to display calmness and dedication that gave strength to many. May she rest in peace,” she wrote on Twitter.

Ireland: Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin conveyed his deepest sympathy to King Charles, the Royal Family, the UK Government and the British people on the loss of their beloved monarch. “The Queen’s reign was one of historic duration, immense consequence, and a focus of respect and admiration around the world. Her dedication to duty and public service were self-evident and her wisdom and experience truly unique.”

India: India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi said: “I had memorable meetings with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during my UK visits in 2015 and 2018. I will never forget her warmth and kindness. During one of the meetings, she showed me the handkerchief Mahatma Gandhi gifted her on her wedding. I will always cherish that gesture.”