GAZA CITY — Hamas will release Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier, in the coming days, a senior Hamas official told media. The announcement, confirmed by multiple mediators, is being viewed as a critical moment in the stalled ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel.
While no exact timeline was given, sources familiar with the talks say Alexander could be freed as early as Tuesday.
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Former President Donald Trump, posting on Truth Social, thanked all involved.
“This was a step taken in good faith towards the United States and the efforts of the mediators — Qatar and Egypt — to put an end to this very brutal war,” he wrote.
Hamas echoed that sentiment, stating that Alexander’s release is tied to broader humanitarian and diplomatic objectives, including renewed ceasefire talks and increased aid flow into the devastated Gaza Strip.
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Hostage Release Part of Broader Deal
According to Hamas, Alexander is believed to be the last surviving American hostage in Gaza. His release is part of an evolving plan to secure a lasting truce and return all hostages and remains.
Qatar and Egypt issued a joint statement calling the development an “encouraging” signal that the warring parties may return to serious negotiations. Turkish officials were also reportedly involved in facilitating discussions.
Humanitarian Toll and the Ongoing War
The release comes amid a devastating conflict that began on October 7, 2023, when a Hamas-led attack on Israel killed 1,200 people and saw 251 hostages taken—Israel’s deadliest day in history.
In response, Israel launched a sweeping military offensive in Gaza. According to local health officials, more than 52,800 Palestinians have been killed. With much of the territory flattened and 2.3 million civilians dependent on aid, humanitarian conditions remain dire.
Four-Way Negotiations and Diplomatic Push
Behind the scenes, U.S., Qatari, Egyptian, and Hamas officials reportedly conducted direct talks to coordinate Alexander’s release. Special Envoy Adam Boehler confirmed the development as a “positive step” and urged Hamas to release the remains of four other Americans still held.
Meanwhile, Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya said the group is ready for intensive negotiations toward a broader prisoner exchange and final agreement to end the war.
Israel Stands Firm, Ceasefire Not Guaranteed
While the hostage release is seen as progress, Israel’s government remains cautious. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a closed-door meeting, acknowledged the possibility of Alexander’s release but reiterated that Israel will maintain its military objectives.
The Israeli offensive resumed in March after an earlier ceasefire collapsed, and officials say the campaign will continue until all remaining 59 hostages are freed and Gaza is demilitarized.
U.S. Blames Hamas for Hostilities
A U.S. State Department spokesperson emphasized that Hamas bears full responsibility for both the initial conflict and its ongoing escalation, signaling continued support for Israel’s right to defend itself.
