Former Vice President Dick Cheney Dies at 84

Former US Vice President Dick Cheney died at the age of 84, his family announced on Tuesday, attributing his passing to complications from pneumonia and heart and vascular disease.

The family said Cheney was surrounded by his wife Lynne, daughters Liz and Mary, and other close relatives when he passed away.

Over a political career spanning more than four decades, Cheney was a central figure in Washington, serving as Vice President under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009 and influencing the administration's post-9/11 foreign and defence strategy.

Earlier, he was Secretary of Defense under President George H. W. Bush from 1989 to 1993, during which he oversaw the US-led campaign in the Gulf War. He also represented Wyoming in Congress and held senior roles in several Republican administrations.

Cheney's time in public office was marked by robust support for a strong national security posture and controversy, particularly over his backing of the Iraq War and the Bush administration's counterterrorism policies.

He faced significant health issues over the years, including multiple heart attacks; in 2012 he had an implanted cardiac device and later recounted his medical struggles in his memoir In My Time.

His daughter, Liz Cheney, who served in Congress, has become a prominent political voice known for her criticism of former President Donald Trump and her emphasis on upholding democratic institutions.

The family requested privacy and said they will provide information on funeral arrangements at a later time.