Hamas has consented to release 21-year-old Edan Alexander, an Israeli-American soldier and the last reported American hostage in their care. Qatar and Egypt labeled the move an “encouraging step” toward resuming broken ceasefire talks in Gaza.
Alexander is due for release on Tuesday, sources quoted by Reuters have said. His release forms part of wider international efforts to broker a truce and increase humanitarian access in the region.
Who is Edan Alexander?
Alexander, originally from New Jersey, went on to serve in the Israeli military. He was taken by Hamas when they conducted their October 7, 2023 attack, killing 1,200 individuals and 251 being held hostage. Since Israel’s campaign of retaliation within Gaza, more than 52,800 Palestinian lives have been lost, according to local health authorities.
Trump Welcomes Eden’s Return
Ex-US President Donald Trump welcomed the news, saying on Truth Social: “I am delighted to report that Edan Alexander, an American hostage since October of 2023, is returning to his family. I appreciate all the parties who made this gigantic news a reality.”
Prior to his visit to the Middle East next week, Trump added, “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 and return ALL living hostages and remains to their loved ones.” His special envoy, Adam Boehler, also commended the release but called for the return of the remains of four other Americans.
The deal allegedly came out of face-to-face negotiations between the U.S., Qatar, Egypt, and Hamas. Hamas politician Khalil al-Hayya confirmed Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey’s participation and stated that the group is prepared to “begin intensive negotiations” for an expanded prisoner exchange and permanent ceasefire.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was quoted to have informed a parliamentary committee that Alexander’s release might be an act of goodwill towards Trump. Israel reiterated that its military offensive would continue until all the hostages are released and Gaza is demilitarized, though officials noted that the move might resuscitate talks for the other 59 hostages.
Meanwhile, Hamas insists it will only negotiate further releases within a framework that ends the war and lifts the blockade.
