- Hamas agreed to release an American-Israeli after 525 days in captivity. Qatar-mediated negotiations secured the hostage release negotiations.
- The deal includes releasing four deceased hostages’ bodies, with transfer details still unclear.
- The release may boost Israel-Hamas ceasefire talks, which stalled on March 1, as negotiations continue for a broader agreement.
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Hamas agreed to release Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old American-Israeli soldier, marking the first confirmation of his freedom after 525 days in captivity.
Hamas captured Alexander, a member of the Israel Defense Forces’ Golani Brigade, on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched an attack on Israel.
Raised in New Jersey, Alexander moved to Israel after high school to enlist in the military.
What does the deal include?
Hamas’ agreement includes the release of four bodies of hostages who died in captivity, though their identities have not been disclosed.
The timing of the transfer remains unclear. Qatar and Egypt have mediated indirect talks between Hamas and Israel as negotiations continue for a broader ceasefire agreement.
How has his family responded?
Alexander’s mother, Yael, repeatedly spoke out about her son’s captivity, describing the emotional toll of waiting for his release.
In November 2024, Hamas released a video of Alexander speaking under duress, referencing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and then President-elect Donald Trump. His family called the video disturbing but took it as a sign he was still alive.
How does this impact ceasefire talks?
The deal comes as discussions in Qatar aim to establish the next phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, which initially paused fighting for hostage exchanges but ended on March 1.
Hamas insisted on broader negotiations, including the release of more Palestinian prisoners and a long-term truce. Israel, however, pushed for the return of all hostages before discussing a ceasefire extension.
What happens next?
U.S. officials backed efforts to secure the release of American hostages, with Trump publicly pressuring Hamas to release all captives.
The Biden administration had been involved in diplomatic talks regarding hostage releases before Trump took office. Israel continues to demand the release of remaining hostages, while families of those still in captivity urge world leaders to take stronger action.
