Hamas Agrees to Release Israeli-American Hostage and Restart Ceasefire Talks

The militant group plans to free Edan Alexander and return four deceased captives as negotiations resume over Gaza's fragile ceasefire.

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.