Hamas Agrees to Release Israeli-American Hostage Edan Alexander

In a rare and unexpected announcement, the Hamas terrorist organization declared Sunday night that it would release 21-year-old Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander, as part of what it called a goodwill gesture toward the United States in the context of ongoing truce efforts in Gaza.

Alexander, who has been held by Hamas since October 7, is believed to be the last living American citizen in captivity. The announcement follows negotiations involving the Trump administration’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, who has been leading U.S. efforts to secure the release of hostages in Gaza.

According to a statement from the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, “The US has informed Israel of Hamas’s intention to release soldier Edan Alexander as a gesture to the Americans, without conditions or anything in exchange.”

Hamas claimed the move was designed to advance a ceasefire, open border crossings, and facilitate humanitarian aid into Gaza. The release is expected to occur within 48 hours, following the arrival of Alexander’s parents and Witkoff in Israel. Local media report that Israel was not directly involved in the negotiations and is not being asked to release any terrorists in return.

Jerusalem, while preparing for the development, issued a cautionary note “Negotiations will be held under fire, based on the commitment to achieve all of the objectives of the war,” the Prime Minister’s Office stated. Despite the Trump administration’s opposition to Israel’s current ground operation in Gaza, Israeli leadership remains committed to continuing military pressure on Hamas until all hostages are returned and the group is dismantled.

Israeli officials are reportedly concerned that the release of American hostages could shift U.S. focus away from broader hostage negotiations once their citizens are freed. Nonetheless, the breakthrough could help revive talks around the Witkoff framework a plan already approved by Israel and now gaining traction in diplomatic circles.

Alexander’s family confirmed to Israeli media that they had been updated on the development by Witkoff. “We are waiting for Hamas’s announcement,” they said. “Witkoff updated us that this is expected to happen.”

While the move is welcomed by the Alexander family and the wider Jewish world, it also brings renewed attention to the dozens of other hostages still in Hamas captivity. Israel’s leadership has reiterated its unwavering commitment to securing their release through strength, negotiation, and unyielding resolve.

Pray for Edan’s safe return and for the day all hostages will be home. Share this story and subscribe to our newsletter for vital updates on Israel’s mission to bring its people back.