ABU DHABI [MENL] -- Saudi Arabia appears to be bracing for the death of King Fahd.

Fahd, 82, has been hospitalized for what was determined to be pneumonia, Arab diplomats said. They said Fahd's health has deteriorated and he could have fallen into a coma.

"We ask God to keep and protect the Custodian of the Two Holy Shrines, grant him health and well-being," an official Saudi statement said.

Diplomats said the kingdom has been on a state of alert and canceled all military leave to ensure stability in case Fahd dies. They said Fahd's passing could spark a power struggle among his six brothers, particularly Crown Prince Abdullah, Defense Minister Prince Sultan and Interior Minister Prince Nayef.