Hamas, the Palestinian armed group, announced on Sunday night its intention to release Edan Alexander, the last living American citizen held captive in Gaza. This announcement comes just days before President Trump is expected to visit the region as part of his first major foreign tour of his second term.
Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas’s lead negotiator, did not specify the timing of Mr. Alexander's release or any potential exchanges involved. However, U.S. officials expressed hope that his release could occur as early as Monday, according to an anonymous source familiar with the discussions.
This development occurs during a critical period for the region, as Palestinians prepare for possible escalations in Israel's renewed ground offensive in Gaza. Families of Israeli hostages have increasingly voiced concerns about the lack of progress in securing the release of their loved ones.
Edan Alexander, 21, originally from Tenafly, New Jersey, relocated to Israel to serve in the military following high school. He was stationed at a military post on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched a surprise attack, marking the onset of the current conflict.
Along with approximately 250 others, Mr. Alexander was abducted and taken to Gaza, where he has been held as a bargaining chip in negotiations with Israel. After more than 18 months, only 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with many presumed dead by Israeli authorities, including four American citizens.
U.S. officials have engaged directly with Hamas leaders to facilitate Mr. Alexander’s release, marking a departure from the traditional American policy of avoiding contact with the group. This information comes from several Palestinians and a diplomat familiar with Hamas's internal discussions, all of whom requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the talks.