Calgary, Alberta — A 21-year-old former member of the Canadian Armed Forces reserves, Zachareah Adam Quraishi, was killed by Israeli security forces after an alleged knife attack in Netiv Ha’asara, near Gaza’s northern border, according to a report by the National Post.
Quraishi, who was released from the reserves on July 10, 2024, reportedly bought a ticket to Israel just 12 days later. Israeli authorities say he then attempted an attack on security guards at Netiv Ha’asara, wielding a large kitchen knife. Video shows guards warning him to stop; when he did not, they opened fire. According to reports, Quraishi shouted “Free Palestine” during the incident.
The Department of National Defence confirmed his service dates: he joined the reserves on July 17, 2023, completed basic military training by December, and was released the following July. The reason for his release was not disclosed, with the department citing privacy protections.
Quraishi’s death and his military background have stirred controversy. His father, Adam Quraishi, has claimed his son went to Israel “to save lives” and accused Israeli forces of killing him unjustly. At the same time, officials have expressed concern about rising home-grown extremism. The head of Canada’s intelligence agency, CSIS, recently highlighted that violent ideological radicalization remains a top national security threat.