Hamas has announced the release of American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander. Alexander has been held in Gaza since October 2023. The announcement was made by the Ezedin Al Qasam Brigades, the armed wing of the Palestinian group.
According to Hamas, Israel will pause its operations in Gaza. This pause is to allow for the safe transfer of Alexander. Mediators informed Hamas of the planned pause.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the release will not lead to a ceasefire. He also said it will not result in the release of Palestinian prisoners. Negotiations for a broader hostage agreement will continue, according to Netanyahu.
This article is based on our author's analysis of materials taken from the following resources: Reuters.