NETIV HAASARA, Israel - Israeli authorities have reported that a Canadian citizen attempted to launch a knife attack on an armed civilian security unit in southern Israel near the Gaza border and was subsequently shot dead on Monday.

The incident occurred at the entrance of Netiv HaAsara, a town that has heightened its security measures since the Gaza war broke out following a rampage by Hamas-led militants on October 7, resulting in the deaths of approximately 20 people.

According to the Israeli military, the suspect alighted from his vehicle and brandished a knife, threatening members of the community's rapid response team operating in the area. In response, the rapid response team swiftly fired shots, neutralizing the suspect. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the security forces.

A police spokesperson confirmed that the attacker was identified as a Canadian citizen. Footage obtained from Reuters television showed the lifeless body of the presumed attacker being transported to an ambulance.

As tensions remain high in the region, the implications of this attempted stabbing attack, carried out by a citizen from a foreign country, underscore the ongoing security challenges faced by Israeli authorities near the Gaza border.

Israeli officials continue to work diligently to reinforce security measures in towns like Netiv HaAsara to safeguard the populace from potential threats and ensure the area remains secure.