Israel and Hamas at war | 234 Canadians were evacuated from Gaza on Sunday

Global Affairs Canada confirmed Sunday that 234 Canadians, permanent residents and members of their families were able to cross the Rafah border crossing, in the south of the Gaza Strip, to find refuge in Egypt.

These people were able to cross into Egypt at 1:30 p.m., Global Affairs Canada (GAC) said in a press release on Sunday. “Our embassy in Cairo is currently providing them with consular assistance, food, accommodation and basic necessities while they organize their travel plans,” the federal agency said.

These people are in addition to the 107 other Canadians who had already crossed the Rafah border post on Tuesday and Thursday of last week.

According to AMC, nine other Canadian citizens crossed the border thanks to a “third party”.

“For reasons of confidentiality, Global Affairs Canada is not able to share further information,” indicates the federal agency.

A total of 800 foreign passport holders were able to leave Gaza on Sunday, according to Palestinian officials at the Rafah border crossing. More than a quarter of them would therefore be Canadian nationals.

Global Affairs Canada also claims to have been in contact with all Canadians who were at the border on Sunday. “As the situation remains fluid and unpredictable, Canadians should expect significant delays and closures without notice at the Rafah border crossing […]. We continue to communicate directly with Canadians, asking them to have their travel documents on hand and to be prepared to travel at very short notice. »

From Egypt to Canada

The Egyptian government allows Canadian nationals to stay three days on its territory while they organize their return trip to Canada.

Global Affairs Canada offers support for organizing the trip, which remains at the travelers’ expense. The federal agency can connect them with organizations that can support them. “Financial assistance in the form of private funds transfer or emergency loans could also be offered for those who need it,” specifies AMC.

According to the federal agency, six Canadian citizens and one person with close ties to Canada have died since October 7. Two Canadians are also missing.