Hamas has announced that Edan Alexander, the last remaining American hostage in Gaza, will be released as part of efforts to establish a ceasefire, reopen crossings into the Israeli-blockaded territory, and resume aid delivery. US President Donald Trump confirmed the agreement in a tweet, calling it “a step taken in good faith towards the United States.” The announcement comes just before Trump’s visit to the Middle East and suggests the willingness of the US to support ceasefire talks.
Trump, who has expressed full support for Israel’s actions, will be visiting Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates this week. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office also confirmed the development, stating that the US informed them of Hamas’s intention to release Alexander without compensation or conditions, leading to truce negotiations.
Alexander, an Israeli-American soldier who grew up in New Jersey, is expected to return to the US within the next 48 hours. Hamas is ready for negotiations and has been in contact with the US administration. The group has called for immediate talks to secure a long-term truce, including an end to the war, prisoner exchange, and handing over power in Gaza to an independent technocratic body. Fifty-nine hostages are still in Gaza, with around a third believed to be alive, and their families are hoping Alexander’s release will mark the beginning of a comprehensive agreement to free everyone.
Source: https://www.euronews.com/2025/05/12/trump-announces-hamas-has-agreed-to-release-the-last-living-us-israeli-hostage-in-gaza
