The Israeli soldier held hostage by the Hamas is expected to be released within the next 48 hours. Steve Witkoff, envoy for President Donald Trump, is scheduled to arrive in Israel on Monday and will attempt to expand the scope of the release, aiming to secure the return of additional hostages.
In order to facilitate Alexander's release, Israel is expected to observe a temporary ceasefire for several hours. There is still no agreement regarding the four bodies of American-Israeli citizens. Hamas is demanding a longer ceasefire and additional aid.
Since Israel is not a direct party to the agreement, Hamas has communicated the release plans directly to the Americans. In exchange for the release, humanitarian aid will be allowed into the Gaza Strip, not through Israeli facilities, as Israel is not a formal party to this deal.
Israel is not expected to release any terrorists in exchange for Alexander. Witkoff is expected to hold a private meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, against the backdrop of reports of growing tensions between Netanyahu and President Trump.
A US official said that if a deal is reached for a long-term ceasefire and negotiations on ending the war begin, Trump would consider visiting Israel before traveling to Saudi Arabia. The aim would be to stage a joint photo-op with the freed hostage and Netanyahu.
The Prime Minister's Office stated: "The United States has informed Israel of Hamas' intention to release the soldier Edan Alexander as a gesture to the Americans, with no quid pro quo or conditions. The US has conveyed to Israel that this step could lead to negotiations for the release of additional hostages under the original Witkoff framework, which Israel has already accepted.
"Israel is preparing for the possibility that this move will materialize. In line with Israel's policy, negotiations will be conducted under fire, with full commitment to achieving all the objectives of the war."
From the Hostages' Families Forum: "If the reports are accurate, Edan's return must be the beginning of a comprehensive agreement to bring back all 59 hostages. There is only one just, moral and necessary agreement: the immediate return of all the hostages and an end to the war."
