Overview
- Hamas announced its willingness to release Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander, the last living U.S. citizen in their captivity, and the bodies of four deceased dual-national hostages.
- The release offer is part of mediated discussions involving Qatar and Egypt to advance the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement.
- Israel has yet to confirm acceptance of the deal, as it seeks the release of more living hostages before moving forward with broader negotiations.
- Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli soldier with American citizenship, was taken hostage during Hamas' October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, which killed over 1,200 people.
- The first phase of the ceasefire saw the release of 33 hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, but talks on extending the truce have stalled in recent weeks.