New Delhi: Hamas has announced that Edan Alexander, the last living American hostage in Gaza, will be released as part of ongoing efforts to establish a ceasefire, reopen crossings into the Israeli-blockaded territory, and resume the delivery of humanitarian aid.
Two senior Hamas officials told The Associated Press that Alexander’s release is expected within the next 48 hours. US President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, confirmed late Sunday that Hamas agreed to release Alexander as a goodwill gesture toward Trump. The announcement comes shortly before President Trump’s scheduled visit to the Middle East this week — though he is not expected to visit Israel.
An Israeli-American soldier
Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier who grew up in New Jersey, was abducted from his base during the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that ignited the war in Gaza. His family has been vocal in recent months, with his mother, Yael Alexander, stating in February: “Every time they say Edan’s name, it’s like they didn’t forget. They didn’t forget he’s American, and they’re working on it.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that the US had informed Israel of Hamas’ intent to release Alexander “without compensation or conditions”. Netanyahu’s government, which had previously expressed anger over direct US talks with Hamas, now views the move as a potential pathway to renewed negotiations on a truce.
A gift for Donald Trump
Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayyah said the group is ready to “immediately start intensive negotiations” to secure a long-term truce. Their proposed deal would include an end to the war, the exchange of Palestinian prisoners and Israeli hostages, and the transfer of Gaza’s governance to an independent body of technocrats.
Indirect talks between Hamas and the US began five days ago, mediated by Egypt and Qatar. According to a senior Hamas official, Hamas was advised to “give a gift to President Trump and in return he will give back a better one”. The official added that Alexander’s release will require Israel to pause fighting for a few hours.
Meanwhile, bombardment in Gaza continues. Israeli airstrikes overnight and into Sunday killed 15 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to Gaza health officials. Two strikes in Khan Younis killed four people, including two children and their parents.
