Hamas to release Israeli-American hostage ahead of Trump visit

Hamas has announced plans to release Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander, in what it describes as a goodwill gesture to advance ceasefire negotiations and allow the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

The announcement comes on the eve of US President Donald Trump’s scheduled visit to the Middle East on May 13. According to a senior Palestinian official, the release is intended to signal readiness for broader diplomatic engagement and de-escalation, Caliber.Az reports per the BBC. 

Alexander, 21, was captured by Hamas militants during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel and is believed to be the last living US citizen held in Gaza. Born in Tel Aviv and raised in New Jersey, Alexander was serving in an elite Israeli infantry unit along the Gaza border at the time of his abduction.

The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office confirmed it had been notified by US officials of Hamas's intent to release Alexander “as a gesture towards the Americans,” and suggested the move could pave the way for further hostage negotiations.

In a post on Truth Social, President Trump hailed the development as “monumental news” and “a step taken in good faith.” His administration has reportedly been engaged in direct talks with Hamas representatives through mediators in Qatar.

A final meeting between Hamas and the mediators is expected to take place on May 12 to finalise the handover, which would require a temporary halt in Israeli military operations, including a suspension of aerial strikes, during the transfer.

Hamas stated that Alexander’s release is part of broader efforts to secure a ceasefire and enable humanitarian supplies to enter Gaza, which has been under an Israeli blockade for 70 days.

Of the 251 hostages taken during Hamas’s 2023 attack, 59 remain in Gaza. Up to 24 are believed to be alive.

Israel's policy was that negotiations would be conducted "under fire, based on the commitment to achieve all of the objectives of the war", it added.

By Sabina Mammadli