Hamas to Release American-Israeli Soldier Edan Alexander as Ceasefire Talks Progress

Hamas has announced it will release Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli soldier and U.S. citizen, as part of ongoing efforts to reach a permanent ceasefire with Israel.

Alexander, believed to be the last living American hostage held in Gaza, was captured during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks. He was 19 at the time and stationed at a military base near the Gaza border. The announcement came on Sunday, with sources telling Reuters the release is expected to happen on Tuesday.

“Hamas has been in contact with the U.S. administration over the past few days,” the group said in a statement. “The release of Israeli soldier Edan Alexander, a dual U.S. citizen, will be part of the steps being taken to achieve a ceasefire, open the crossings, and allow aid and relief to reach our people in the Gaza Strip.”

U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that he is en route to Israel to help secure Alexander’s release. “We are picking him up probably tomorrow,” he told NBC News, describing the release as a “gesture of goodwill” largely influenced by former President Donald Trump.

The Hostages Families Forum expressed solidarity with Alexander’s family, stating that his release should be the beginning of a broader agreement to free all remaining hostages. Roughly 59 individuals are still being held in Gaza, with about a third believed to be alive.

Israel was reportedly informed by the U.S. that the release was made “without compensation or conditions” and aligns with the “Witkoff framework” — a proposal from March that includes a phased release of hostages in exchange for a ceasefire and further negotiations.

Meanwhile, U.S. special envoy Adam Boehler described the move as “a positive step forward,” calling on Hamas to also return the remains of four deceased American citizens.

Negotiations are ongoing, with the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar involved in broader talks aimed at ending the conflict and addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza.