Omar Suleiman, Egypt’s former spy chief, dies in US

GlobalPost

Omar Suleiman, Egypt's former head of intelligence and a once-powerful figure close to deposed leader Hosni Mubarak, passed away today in a hospital in Cleveland, Ohio, reported Reuters.

Suleiman aide and a senior security official Hussein Kamal told Reuters that his death during medical tests "came suddenly," but did not elaborate further. 

More from GlobalPost: Damascus bombing: Syrian activists say it's too early to celebrate

Egypt's MENA news agency said the 76-year-old died in the early morning hours today, according to BBC News

His body will be flown to Egypt for burial, said BBC

Mubarak appointed Suleiman vice president in the heady days leading up to the former president's February overthrow by popular protest. Suleiman's attempts to appease angry protesters during the period largely failed, reported Reuters.

He was named head of the powerful Egyptian General Intelligence Services in 1993, a role that saw him heavily involved in Egypt's foreign relations, according to Reuters

After Mubarak's ousting, Suleiman attempted to run for president in the country's recent vote but was unable to secure the number of signatures required, said Reuters.

Will you support The World with a monthly donation?

Every day, reporters and producers at The World are hard at work bringing you human-centered news from across the globe. But we can’t do it without you. We need your support to ensure we can continue this work for another year.

Make a gift today, and you’ll help us unlock a matching gift of $67,000!