Hamas has announced it will release Edan Alexander, the last known living American hostage in Gaza, amid ongoing ceasefire discussions and increased diplomatic involvement by U.S. President Donald Trump. The release is part of broader talks toward a potential long-term truce and humanitarian relief in the region.
Hamas to Release Last Living American Hostage in Gaza
Edan Alexander to Be Freed in Ceasefire Push
Hamas declared on Sunday that it will release Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier and the last known living American hostage in Gaza. This step is part of efforts to advance a ceasefire deal and restore humanitarian access to the war-torn territory. Hamas did not provide an exact timeline for the release.
Background: Who Is Edan Alexander?
American-Born Soldier Abducted in October 2023
Edan Alexander grew up in Tenafly, New Jersey, and moved to Israel in 2022, where he enlisted in the Israeli military. He was kidnapped during the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on Israel that marked the beginning of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. His family has been vocal about efforts to secure his freedom.
U.S. Role and Trump Administration Involvement
Trump Administration Intensifies Diplomatic Efforts
President Donald Trump and his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, have repeatedly mentioned Alexander by name, highlighting his case as a priority. Trump is scheduled to visit the Middle East this week, though not Israel directly. Witkoff is expected to arrive in Israel shortly to continue negotiations. Hamas confirmed recent direct communication with the U.S. government regarding a possible long-term truce.
Hamas Proposal: Toward a Broader Truce Deal
Militant Group Signals Openness to Negotiations
According to Hamas official Khalil al-Hayyah, the group is ready to begin intensive negotiations on a comprehensive truce deal. The proposed agreement would include ending the conflict, exchanging Palestinian prisoners and Israeli hostages, and transitioning governance of Gaza to an independent technocratic body.
Reactions and Political Implications
Israel Silent, U.S. Active
There has been no official response yet from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office. His government had previously criticized direct U.S. engagement with Hamas. The latest developments mark a potential shift in the dynamics of American involvement and Middle East diplomacy under the Trump administration.
Family’s Hope and Public Awareness
Family Grateful for Ongoing Advocacy
Alexander’s mother, Yael, told the Associated Press earlier this year that continued mentions of her son by U.S. officials gave the family hope. A video of Edan released during Thanksgiving 2024 showed him pleading for help—a painful but reassuring sign that he was still alive.
Hostages in Gaza: The Bigger Picture
Many Still Detained, Few Confirmed Alive
As of now, around 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with roughly a third believed to be alive. Most others have been released under previous ceasefire agreements. The status of those still detained remains a central issue in any negotiations.
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