Hamas announced Sunday it will release Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander, 18, from Gaza in a bid to secure a ceasefire and reopen border crossings for critical humanitarian aid. The move comes after weeks of indirect talks with U.S. mediators, described by Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya as showing 'great positivity.' 🌍
The group pledged to start 'intensive negotiations' immediately to finalize a deal that would end the conflict, facilitate prisoner swaps, and establish a new governing body for Gaza. Senior Hamas official Suhail al-Hindi confirmed to Xinhua News Agency the release will happen within 48 hours.
Edan Alexander—believed to be the last living American hostage in Gaza—was captured alongside over 200 others during Hamas’ October 2023 attack on Israel. A fragile truce in January saw some hostages freed and aid deliveries resume, but talks collapsed in March, deepening Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. 🔄
Will this new gesture reignite diplomacy? Analysts say it signals Hamas’ desire to ease global pressure, while Israel faces mounting calls to prioritize civilian safety. Stay tuned for updates as the clock ticks. ⏳
