Hamas has announced the imminent release of Edan Alexander, the last known living American hostage in Gaza. The move follows days of contact between the militant group and the United States, described by Hamas as “showing high positivity.”
Khalil Al-Hayya, head of Hamas’ negotiating team, confirmed ongoing communications with U.S. officials and framed Alexander’s release as part of a broader effort to reach a ceasefire and open humanitarian aid corridors into the besieged Gaza Strip.
“The movement affirms its readiness to immediately start intensive negotiations, and make serious efforts to reach a final agreement to stop the war, exchange prisoners in an agreed manner, and manage the Gaza Strip by an independent professional body,” Al-Hayya said in a statement.
The Alexander family responded to the news, which broke on Mother’s Day, calling it “the greatest gift imaginable.” They thanked U.S. President Donald Trump, his Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, and the U.S. administration for their “tireless work to make this happen.”
Trump, in a post on Truth Social, called it “monumental news,” saying it was a “step taken in good faith toward the United States and the efforts of the mediators – Qatar and Egypt – to put an end to this very brutal war and return ALL living hostages and remains to their loved ones.”
Witkoff is expected to arrive in Tel Aviv on Monday ahead of the handover.
Israel is not expected to release any Palestinian prisoners in exchange. “We’re going to go into immediate peace deal negotiations,” the source added.
U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Response Adam Boehler will accompany Alexander’s parents, Adi and Yael, to Israel for their son’s release. Boehler credited a focused team effort and emphasized that Trump remains committed to bringing home all hostages and American remains. “The signals have been very good,” he said, calling Alexander’s release “a first important step.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told members of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee on Sunday that Hamas may release Alexander soon. His office confirmed the U.S. had informed them of the plan, stating that it would occur “without compensation or conditions.” Israel agreed only to “a safe corridor” for the release.
Alexander was captured during the Hamas-led October 7, 2023, attack while serving in the Israeli military. He is one of 59 remaining hostages in Gaza. Trump recently claimed that only 21 are still alive—fewer than Israel’s estimate of 24—prompting Netanyahu to acknowledge uncertainty regarding three of the hostages.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged the Israeli government and Trump to push for a broader release. “President Trump, you’ve given the families of all the hostages hope. Please, complete your mission and bring them all home.”
Qatar and Egypt called the move “an encouraging step” toward renewed ceasefire negotiations and humanitarian relief.
