Hamas has announced plans to release Edan Alexander, the last known American hostage held in Gaza since the October 7, 2023 attack. The 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier was abducted from his military base near the Gaza border during the assault that resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and the capture of 250 hostages.(AP News)
The release is part of broader efforts to negotiate a ceasefire, reopen humanitarian aid corridors, and potentially pave the way for a larger prisoner exchange. Hamas officials indicated that Alexander’s release could occur within 48 hours, though no exact timing has been confirmed. The announcement is seen as a goodwill gesture ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to the Middle East. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has confirmed the development, and U.S. officials are coordinating with Israel and mediators from Qatar and Egypt to facilitate the release.(AP News, Axios)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office acknowledged the planned release but criticized Hamas for rejecting a broader ceasefire proposal put forth by the U.S. . The proposal included the release of 10 living hostages and a temporary ceasefire during the Jewish Passover and Ramadan periods.(The Times of Israel)
Alexander’s parents, Yael and Adi Alexander, have been vocal advocates for the return of all hostages. They have met with both President Joe Biden and President Trump, urging for a comprehensive deal to secure the freedom of their son and others still in captivity. Yael Alexander expressed hope that the release of her son would mark the beginning of a broader resolution to the hostage crisis.(The Times of Israel)
The Hostages Families Forum, an advocacy group for the families of those abducted, welcomed the news of Alexander’s impending release. They emphasized that this should be the first step toward the liberation of all remaining hostages and the return of the bodies of those killed.(AP News)
As of now, over 100 hostages have been released in various exchanges since the conflict began, but many, including Americans, remain in captivity. The international community continues to call for a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the hostage situation and the broader conflict.
