The Hamas terror organization announced Friday that it has agreed to release Edan Alexander, an American citizen, along with the remains of four deceased hostages who also hold American citizenship.
In an official statement, Hamas wrote: "The Hamas leadership delegation received a proposal yesterday from the mediating brothers to resume negotiations. The movement responded responsibly and positively, submitting its response this morning, including its agreement to release the Israeli soldier Edan Alexander, who holds American citizenship, in addition to the bodies of four other dual citizens. The movement confirms its absolute readiness to initiate negotiations and reach a comprehensive agreement on second phase issues, calling on the occupation to fulfill its commitments in full."
Israeli officials responded by saying: "The offer that Hamas is publishing is very far from our demand for at least eight living hostages." However, these statements don't necessarily indicate whether Israel will reject the offer, as the Israeli government continues to pursue any possible release of hostages.
Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem described the organization's agreement as part of its "positive conduct" in response to mediators' efforts. He claimed Hamas has informed mediators about Israel's alleged violations during the previous round of negotiations. Qassem added that mediators should pressure Israel to continue with the ceasefire agreement, stating: "The American administration is responsible for pressuring Israel to be committed to the agreement."
This announcement follows several days of contacts and discussions in Doha, Qatar, regarding the continuation of hostage negotiations. United States Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump's special negotiator, has been present at the talks over the past two days.
Yesterday, Israel Hayom reported that Israel is attempting to reach an agreement with Hamas for the release of approximately half the living hostages – about 12 people – in two phases, along with the return of some bodies of deceased hostages currently held in Gaza.
It remains unclear whether these contacts will develop into a concrete deal and how long it might take to reach an understanding. Today's announcement could indicate progress in negotiations and suggests Hamas might be responding to President Trump's declared desire last week to secure the release of American hostages, as well as all other captives who have been held in Gaza for 525 days since the October 7 attack.
