LONDON -- Edan Alexander, an American-Israeli hostage held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023, is expected to be released on Monday following successful negotiations between the United States and the Palestinian group. Israeli security officials confirmed to ABC News that there will be a temporary suspension of combat operations, airstrikes, and aerial reconnaissance in the specific area of Gaza where Alexander is anticipated to be released.
The pause in military activities will remain in effect until Alexander safely crosses into Israeli territory, a process expected to take less than 30 minutes. According to an Israeli official, Hamas plans to release Alexander at 6:30 p.m. local time (11:30 a.m. ET). His mother, Yael Alexander, has already arrived at the Re'im military base in southern Israel, situated near the Gaza border, accompanied by Special Envoy for Hostage Response Adam Boehler.
Upon the expected release of Alexander, he will be welcomed at the Re'im base before being transported to a hospital in Tel Aviv for medical evaluation and care. On the same day, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held discussions with Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, as outlined in an official statement from his office. Netanyahu also communicated with former President Donald Trump, expressing gratitude for Trump’s role in facilitating Alexander's release.
During these discussions, Netanyahu emphasized the urgency of implementing the proposed framework for the release of hostages, a plan that was presented by Witkoff prior to the escalation of hostilities. In a decisive move, the prime minister instructed that a negotiating delegation be dispatched to Doha the following day. He made it clear that negotiations would continue despite ongoing military engagements.
Edan Alexander, originally from New Jersey, moved to Israel at the age of 18. He was serving in the Israel Defense Forces when he was captured during Hamas' attack on October 7, 2023. At the time of his abduction, he was just 19 years old. Alexander is currently recognized as the last living American citizen believed to be held hostage by Hamas. U.S. officials also indicate that Hamas is in possession of the remains of four deceased American hostages.
Hamas announced its intention to release Alexander on Sunday, framing the decision as part of ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire. The group stated that they have been in communication with American officials over the preceding days as part of these ceasefire negotiations. On his social media platform, Trump remarked that Alexander's release represents a critical step towards concluding the ongoing conflict, although he did not specify the timing of the release.
A U.S. official familiar with the arrangements for Alexander's release revealed to ABC News that the deal was reached through direct discussions between American representatives and Hamas over the past few days. Alexander's release is perceived as a gesture of goodwill towards the Trump administration and could serve as an opening for renewed dialogue concerning the broader conflict in the region. However, officials noted that the U.S. did not achieve all the concessions it had sought.
Alexander's family has issued a statement through the Hostage Families Forum, indicating that they were notified of Hamas' announcement and are in ongoing communication with the U.S. government regarding Edan's anticipated release. The family reiterated their commitment to ensuring that no hostage remains behind, with assurances that Israel is dedicated to the safe return of all 58 remaining hostages without delay.
Edan Alexander was one of the 253 hostages taken during Hamas' attack on October 7, which resulted in the tragic loss of approximately 1,200 lives, according to Israeli sources. In response, Israel launched a military offensive in Gaza that has reportedly led to the deaths of over 52,829 individuals and left 119,554 others wounded as of the latest figures provided by the Hamas-run Ministry of Health in Gaza.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates as more information becomes available.
