Hamas frees US-Israeli hostage in key step toward ceasefire

Hamas has freed Edan Alexander, a US-Israeli hostage, marking a significant development in ongoing negotiations.

On May 11, Hamas stated that the release of Alexander was a step toward achieving a ceasefire agreement with Israel, following recent talks with the US, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli soldier originally from New Jersey, is believed to be the last surviving US citizen held in Gaza since the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. The bodies of four other Americans remain in Gaza, according to the United States.

President Trump posted on his social media platform, calling the release "a step taken in good faith" aimed at ending the war. Hamas described the release as part of an effort to implement a ceasefire, open Gaza's border crossings, and deliver humanitarian aid to the region. For over 10 weeks, Israel has blocked all aid to Gaza, including food and medical supplies, as leverage to pressure Hamas into releasing more hostages. Humanitarian groups warn that this blockade has exacerbated hunger in the territory. 

A Hamas official, speaking anonymously due to a lack of authorisation, revealed that the release came in exchange for unspecified gestures promised by the United States. The official suggested that Hamas expects Israel to release Palestinian prisoners and allow some aid into Gaza. Additionally, they anticipate the US will negotiate a broader deal with Israel that ensures the end of the war. 

"The ball is now in the American and Israeli court. We gave the Americans what they asked for. They need to get the other side to give things too," the Hamas official commented.

In response, a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office emphasised that Alexander’s release "without anything in return" was a result of President Trump’s diplomatic efforts and the Israeli military's pressure on Gaza.

By Naila Huseynova