Media: Hamas agrees to release US hostage, return four bodies

Hamas has announced the decision to release Edan Alexander, an American citizen, and return the remains of four deceased US citizens: Omer Neutra, Itay Chen, Gad Haggai, and Judi Weinstein-Haggai.

In an official statement, Hamas stated, "The Hamas leadership delegation received a proposal yesterday from the mediating brothers to resume negotiations," Caliber.Az reports via Israeli media. 

According to the statement, the movement responded responsibly and positively, submitting its response this morning, including its agreement to release the Israeli soldier Edan Alexander, who holds American citizenship, in addition to the bodies of four other dual citizens. The movement confirms its absolute readiness to initiate negotiations and reach a comprehensive agreement on second phase issues, calling on the occupation to fulfill its commitments in full. 

Israeli officials, however, responded by saying, "The offer that Hamas is publishing is very far from our demand for at least eight living hostages." This response, though, does not necessarily indicate whether Israel will reject the offer, as the Israeli government continues to pursue efforts for the release of hostages. Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem characterised the agreement as part of Hamas' "positive conduct" in response to mediation efforts. He added that Hamas had informed mediators about Israel’s alleged violations during the previous round of negotiations. Qassem also urged mediators to pressure Israel to adhere to the ceasefire agreement, saying, "The American administration is responsible for pressuring Israel to be committed to the agreement."

The announcement follows days of discussions in Doha, Qatar, regarding the continuation of hostage negotiations. US Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, and President Donald Trump’s special negotiator have participated in the talks over the past two days.

Israel is working toward an agreement with Hamas to release approximately half of the living hostages—around 12 people—divided into two phases, along with the return of some bodies of deceased hostages held in Gaza. It remains unclear whether these talks will lead to a concrete deal or how long it might take to reach an agreement. However, the latest announcement could signal progress and appears to be a response to President Trump's push last week for the release of American hostages, as well as all other captives held in Gaza since the October 7 attack.

By Naila Huseynova