In a potential breakthrough moment in the ongoing Gaza conflict, Hamas has announced it will release Israeli-American soldier Edan Alexander as part of efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement. The 21-year-old, who was captured during the Hamas-led assault on southern Israel on October 7, is the last known living US national being held in Gaza.
The announcement comes amid direct talks between Hamas and a senior US official in Qatar, with negotiations focusing on a temporary truce and increased humanitarian access to Gaza. A Palestinian official told the BBC that Alexander’s release is meant as a goodwill gesture ahead of President Donald Trump’s arrival in the Middle East on Tuesday.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that it had been informed by the US of the planned release, which is expected to require a brief halt in Israeli military activity during the handover process. Israel maintains its policy of conducting negotiations “under fire,” while continuing its broader war objectives.
Born in Tel Aviv and raised in New Jersey, Alexander was serving with an elite unit near Gaza when captured. Of the 251 hostages taken on October 7, 59 remain unaccounted for in Gaza, with up to 24 believed to be alive. Alexander was believed to be the only living US citizen among them.
In its statement, Hamas said it is aiming for a final agreement to end the war and allow aid into Gaza, which has been under a full Israeli blockade for 70 days. The humanitarian situation continues to worsen, with over 2,700 Palestinians killed since mid-March and soaring cases of child malnutrition.
Trump’s visit is seen as pivotal, with pressure mounting on both sides to reach a deal. Families of hostages have expressed hope that this could mark the start of a broader agreement to secure the release of all captives.
