The story: Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah has transferred certain constitutional duties to Crown Prince Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. The Emir’s decree provides few details on the decision, but it comes after the government’s resignation and the recent pardoning of political dissidents who have returned to Kuwait from exile. Some analysts have cited the Emir’s reportedly declining health as the reason behind the abrupt decree.

The coverage: The Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) announced the decree that gives the crown prince additional duties typically managed by the Emir...