Karim Khan Zand vs Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah

Karim Khan captured Shiraz from the Afsharid governor, making it his capital. He then embarked on a building program, constructing the Arg of Karim Khan, the Vakil Mosque, and the Vakil Bazaar, transforming Shiraz into a prosperous cultural center.

Karim Khan Zand established the Zand dynasty after the collapse of the Afsharid Empire. He took control of western and central Persia, making Shiraz his capital. His rule brought stability after decades of war and foreign invasion.

Karim Khan refused to take the title of shah, instead ruling as 'Vakil-e Ra'aya' (Regent of the People). This decision reflected his desire to maintain legitimacy by ruling in the name of the Safavid claimant Ismail III, and it contributed to his reputation as a benevolent ruler.

Karim Khan defeated the Qajar tribal forces under Mohammad Hasan Khan Qajar at Astarabad, securing control over northern Persia. This victory eliminated a major rival and allowed Karim Khan to consolidate his rule over most of Iran.

Karim Khan negotiated a peace treaty with the Ottoman Empire, ending hostilities along the western borders. This agreement secured the frontier and allowed Karim Khan to focus on internal development and trade, contributing to the prosperity of his realm.

As Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Sabah oversaw the reconstruction of Kuwait after the 1990-1991 Iraqi invasion and Gulf War. He managed the restoration of oil fields, infrastructure, and the return of the Kuwaiti government from exile.

Emir Sabah hosted several international donor conferences for the reconstruction of Iraq after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion. Kuwait contributed billions of dollars in aid and hosted meetings of the International Reconstruction Fund Facility for Iraq.

Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah became the Emir of Kuwait on January 29, 2006, after the death of Emir Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. His accession was confirmed by the National Assembly, ending a succession crisis.

Under Emir Sabah's rule, Kuwait increased its foreign aid and humanitarian contributions, becoming one of the largest donors per capita. He established the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development and supported UN humanitarian efforts.

Emir Sabah attempted to mediate the diplomatic crisis between Qatar and a Saudi-led bloc that began in 2017. Kuwait maintained neutrality and hosted negotiations, though the crisis was not resolved during his lifetime.