Former Chauffeur Convicted of Stalking Qatari Princess

Jihad Abousalah, a 47-year-old former chauffeur for Qatari princess Haya Al-Thani, was sentenced to a community order for stalking the princess under the delusion that they were in a romantic relationship. Throughout March, Abousalah sent gifts, including flowers and a bracelet, and made numerous phone calls to her, causing significant distress and fear for her children's safety. The situation escalated to the point where Al-Thani had to hire private security. The court recognized that Abousalah's actions were influenced by mental health issues, which led him to divorce his wife believing he was with the princess. Despite his mental health struggles, the court acknowledged the severe distress his actions caused Al-Thani. The prosecutor highlighted that Abousalah's awareness of the children's routines intensified the princess's fear, prompting constant vigilance at her home.