Emir of Qatar set to arrive in Gaza for landmark visit

The first head of state to visit since Hamas came into power there in 2007 is set to take place as the Emir of Qatar is scheduled to arrive in Gaza.

A key role in negotiations between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority is usually played by Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani
A key role in negotiations between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority is usually played by Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani

The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani is scheduled to arrive in Gaza as the first head of state to visit since Hamas came to power in 2007.

A $254million construction project is expected to be launched by al-Thani to help rebuild the war torn Palestinian territory.

Since the Islamist movement fell into disagreement with its long-term ally Syria, Qatar has become one of Hamas’s main benefactors.

The Palestinian Authority has met emir’s visit with reservations as the Qatari ruler will be flying out to Egypt and crossing into Gaza by vehicle surrounded by heavy security.  

The Qatari ruler will fly to Egypt and cross into Gaza by car amid tight security.

Being one of the richest countries in the Arab world, Qatar has become an important source of revenue for Hamas and the Emir’s visit is a sign of increasing ties between the Gulf and Hamas.