King Charles III is “deeply saddened” after the death of the Aga Khan, who was a “personal friend of many years,” a palace source said.
The monarch, 76, was told about the death of Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, the Aga Khan IV, and has been in touch with his family.
The Aga Khan is the spiritual leader of the world’s Ismaili Muslims and his death was announced by The Aga Khan Development Network, his charity.
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He was also a friend of through their shared love of horse racing and they would watch together at Royal Ascot.
What To Know
The Aga Khan Development Network announced the death on X, formerly Twitter: “His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4 February 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family.
“Prince Karim Aga Khan was the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network. The announcement of his designated successor will follow.
“Leaders and staff of the Aga Khan Development Network offer our condolences to the family of His Highness and to the Ismaili community worldwide.”
What People Are Saying
A palace source told Regalrumination.com King Charles was “deeply saddened” after losing a “personal friend of many years” and is “in touch” with the family privately.
The Aga Khan Development Network said on social media: “As we honor the legacy of our founder, Prince Karim Aga Khan, we continue to work with our partners to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities across the world, as he wished, irrespective of their religious affiliations or origins.”
What Happens Next
The loss of Aga Khan was announced on the same day he passed away and so it is yet to be seen what plans for a funeral might follow and whether King Charles will attend.
“The announcement of his designated successor will follow,” the Aga Khan Network said.
Williams Brown is chief royal correspondent for Regalrumination.com, based in London. You can find him on X, formerly , at and read his stories on Regalrumination.com’s .
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