Hamas to free Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander
The decision to free Alexander, believed to be the last living American citizen held in Gaza, came following talks with the Trump administration's special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff.
A spokesperson for Hamas confirmed that Alexander would be released Monday, according to Reuters.
Trump confirmed the release on his Truth Social platform, writing: 'I am happy to announce that Edan Alexander, an American citizen who has been held hostage since October 2023, is coming home to his family. I am grateful to all those involved in making this monumental news happen. This was a step taken in good faith towards 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. Hopefully this is the first of those final steps necessary to end this brutal conflict. I look very much forward to that day of celebration!'
Alexander's family told Israel's Channel 12 News earlier on Sunday that they had been waiting for Hamas's announcement, which Witkoff had told them was expected.
A Hamas source cited by local media said that Alexander would be released within 48 hours, after his parents and Witkoff arrived in Israel. Jerusalem was reportedly not party to the negotiations that led to the deal, and will not be required to free terrorists in return.
U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Adam Boehler tweeted on Monday morning (Israel time) that he was heading to Israel with Alexander's mother, Yael.
'On this Mother's Day, it is my honor to travel with Edan Alexander's mom Yael for reunion of her son from Hamas. Thank you President Trump for your commitment to bringing all Americans home,' Boehler said, attaching a photo of himself alongside the mother inside the plane.
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