Hamas has announced that it has lost contact with the group holding Edan Alexander, the last known living U.S. citizen held hostage in Gaza. The 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier was captured during the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks in Israel.
According to Hamas spokesperson Abu Ubaida, the loss of contact occurred following an Israeli military strike on the location where Alexander was believed to be held. Ubaida warned that the hostages’ lives are at risk due to ongoing Israeli military actions in Gaza. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have not commented on Hamas’s claim .
Alexander’s family has expressed deep concern following the release of a video by Hamas in which he pleads for his release. In the video, Alexander criticizes both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former U.S. President Donald Trump for failing to secure his freedom. His mother, Yael Alexander, described the video as “shocking” and “a cruel reminder of Hamas’ terror against citizens of multiple countries” .
Israeli officials have emphasized the importance of securing the release of all hostages. Prime Minister Netanyahu has called for the immediate release of hostages and warned of continued military actions until this demand is met .
As of now, the situation remains tense, with international efforts ongoing to negotiate the release of hostages and address the broader conflict in Gaza.
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