Hamas to Release American Hostage Edan Alexander Amid Ceasefire Talks

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Hamas announced on Sunday that they will release Edan Alexander, the last known American hostage held in Gaza, as part of efforts to establish a ceasefire and facilitate humanitarian aid to the region.

Khalil Al-Hayya, head of Hamas’ negotiating team, stated they were in touch with the U.S. administration in recent days, reporting a “high positivity” in discussions. The release of Alexander aims to reopen crossings into Gaza, which have been under Israeli blockade for over two months.

Al-Hayya emphasized Hamas’s willingness to engage in intensive negotiations with the goal of reaching a final agreement to stop the conflict. He mentioned a potential exchange of prisoners and managing the Gaza Strip by an independent body.

A source informed that U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff is set to arrive in Tel Aviv on Monday, just ahead of the planned release. The source described this move as a gesture of goodwill amid Israel’s preparations for expanded military operations in Gaza.

In a private meeting with members of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee on Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that Hamas might soon release Alexander. This announcement marked a significant development amid ongoing tensions and violence in the region.

The announcement was initially reported by Axios and comes as President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit the Middle East this week, though he will not be stopping in Israel.

This story is developing and will continue to be updated as more information arises.