October 23, 2012

JERUSALEM (JTA)– The Emir of Qatar became the first head of state to visit the Gaza Strip since Hamas took over in 2007.

The Emir, Sheik Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, entered Gaza on Tuesday from Egypt, heading a humanitarian mission to launch reconstruction projects totalling $250 million, according to Reuters. He pledged another $150 million in projects during the visit, according to Reuters.

The Emir was greeted by a Palestinian honor guard. He was scheduled to speak at the Gaza City stadium. Thousands of security guards secured the Emir’s visit.

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