Overview

• Edan Alexander, an Israeli-American soldier, has been freed by Hamas after nearly 19 months in captivity, enduring severe conditions including reported torture and malnutrition.
• The release, framed by Hamas as a goodwill gesture to the United States, occurred without the reciprocal release of Palestinian prisoners, a departure from previous exchanges.
• Israel temporarily paused military operations to create a secure corridor for Alexander's transfer, but has since resumed and plans to intensify its offensive in Gaza.
• At least 20 hostages remain alive in Gaza, with three others unaccounted for, as Israeli and US-led negotiations for broader agreements continue under challenging conditions.
• Hamas's move coincides with US President Donald Trump’s Middle East trip, raising hopes for renewed talks, though Israel maintains its stance against a ceasefire without Hamas's disarmament.