A Canadian man was fatally shot on Monday after threatening Israeli security officials near the Gaza border with a knife, as reported by Israeli authorities.
Israeli authorities stated that the man, who possessed a Canadian passport, had driven to the outpost and exited the vehicle brandishing a knife.
Before being shot, the man shouted slogans like âFree Palestineâ and âYou are killing civilians in Gaza,â according to Israeli media.
The incident occurred at the entrance of Netiv HaAsara, approximately 300 meters north of the Gaza border. This incident took place amidst a surge in stabbings in Gaza, following a conflict initiated by Hamas militants attacking Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in 1,200 casualties and over 240 hostages.
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The attacker was identified by Israeli media as Qawarshi Zakaria Adam, a Canadian Muslim. Israeli police confirmed that he entered the outpost from within Israeli territory, not from Gaza.
âGlobal Affairs Canada is aware of an incident involving a Canadian citizen in Israel,â stated spokesperson Charlotte MacLeod. âDue to privacy considerations, no further information can be disclosed at this time.â
On the same day as the stabbing incident, Israeli forces ordered the evacuation of a section of the Gaza Strip, preparing for a ground operation against Hamas militants who had infiltrated the area to launch rockets at Israel.
According to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, nearly 39,000 Palestinians, including civilians and fighters, have lost their lives during the conflict.
Canada has been advocating for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid to reach Gaza.
âFrom the outset, we have affirmed Israelâs right to self-defense,â stated Foreign Affairs Minister MĂ©lanie Joly in a December 2023 media briefing. âThe manner in which Israel defends itself is crucial.â
The Canadian Press contributed to this report.
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