Hamas Agrees to Release American Hostage Edan Alexander and Four Deceased Dual Nationals

The agreement, part of mediated talks, may pave the way for further negotiations on extending the Gaza ceasefire and resolving the conflict.

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.