Overview

• Hamas announced its readiness to release Israeli-American soldier Edan Alexander, the last living U.S. citizen in its captivity, and return the remains of four dual-national captives.
• The agreement comes as mediators propose resuming Gaza ceasefire talks, with Hamas signaling willingness to proceed to the second phase of the truce agreement.
• Israel has accepted the framework for a potential month-long ceasefire extension but awaits further details before making a final decision.
• The humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, with severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies due to Israel's total blockade following the lapse of the initial ceasefire phase.
• The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 48,500 deaths in Gaza, with extensive infrastructure destruction, while 59 hostages remain in Hamas's custody, roughly half believed to be alive.