Until now, the IDF has held off from going after Hamas in Rafah, from cutting off the terror group’s cross-Egypt-Gaza border tunnels.
Until now, limited quantities of aid have been delivered from Egypt through the Rafah crossing, which is ill-equipped to process large numbers of trucks.
Explaining why it took "so long" to get foreign nationals out, the official said Hamas conditioned the release of foreigners on wounded Palestinians being able to exit as well.
At least 320 foreign nationals and dozens of severely injured Gazans were among the first beneficiaries of the Qatari-mediated deal brokered between Egypt, Israel and Hamas.
Israel imposed a total blockade and launched air strikes on Gaza in response to a deadly attack on Israeli soil by Palestinian group Hamas on Oct. 7.
Israel's bombardment and siege of Gaza is in retaliation for a devastating Hamas incursion into Israel on Oct. 7 during which 1,400 people were killed and hostages were taken.
Canada fully supported Israel's right to defend itself in accordance with international law, but "even wars have rules," he told the House of Commons lower chamber of parliament.
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