The last living American held captive in Gaza has been released in a move paving the way for the possible return to ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas.
Edan Alexander, 21, was handed over to the Red Cross on Monday afternoon, where he is expected to be transferred by a special Israeli military unit to Re’im base in Israel.
Exiled Hamas Chief Khalil Al-Hayya earlier said the release of the dual national from New Jersey, was jointly coordinated by Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey.
“The movement affirms its readiness to immediately start intensive negotiations and make serious efforts to reach a final agreement to end the war, exchange prisoners in an agreed-upon manner,” Hayya added.
Mr Alexander was held hostage for more than 19 months in the Gaza Strip after he was taken from his military base in southern Israel during Hamas’ cross-border attack on Oct. 7, 2023, which set off the war in Gaza.
His release is the first since Israel shattered an eight-week ceasefire with Hamas in March, unleashing fierce strikes on Gaza that have killed hundreds.
A source familiar with the deal told The Independent it was a “good will” gesture after direct talks between the militant group and the US.
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