Hamas to free Edan Alexander as part of Gaza deal: Al-Hayya
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US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff reportedly informed Alexander's family in advance of Hamas's public statement.
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FILE - Khalil al-Hayya, a high-ranking Hamas official who has represented the Palestinian militant group in negotiations for a cease-fire and hostage exchange deal, speaks during an interview with The Associated Press in Istanbul, Turkey, April 24, 2024 (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)
Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya announced on Sunday the imminent release of American-Israeli captive Edan Alexander, linking the decision to US-mediated efforts to reduce tensions in Gaza and pave the way for a comprehensive political settlement.
"Alexander will be released as part of the measures aimed at halting the aggression, reopening border crossings, and facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid and relief to our people in the Gaza Strip," al-Hayya said.
The announcement follows mounting pressure on all sides to shift from military confrontation to diplomatic resolution. Al-Hayya reaffirmed Hamas's willingness to engage seriously in a broader settlement.
"Hamas reaffirms its readiness to immediately engage in intensive negotiations and to make serious efforts toward reaching a comprehensive agreement to end the war," he said, calling for a "mutually agreed prisoner exchange and the administration of the Gaza Strip by a professional, independent body, ensuring lasting calm and stability for years to come, alongside reconstruction efforts and the lifting of the blockade."
Read more: US establishes fund for Gaza aid distribution, no Israeli involvement
The move comes amid growing divergence between Israeli and American approaches to ending the war. While Israeli officials continue to push a proposal that excludes a ceasefire and threatens wider ground aggression, US President Donald Trump is pursuing a broader agreement reportedly centered on long-term reconstruction, civil governance, and a US role in Gaza's postwar future.
According to Israel Hayom, Trump's plan involves minimal Israeli input and may include integrating Gaza's current police into a larger Palestinian security framework, potentially granting Hamas a role in civil administration. The plan is expected to be presented to Israeli officials as a "fait accompli."
Diplomatic shift
Sources speaking to Al Mayadeen confirmed that Trump is expected to personally announce Alexander's release, after teasing a significant statement on Truth Social: "My next TRUTH will be one of the most important and impactful I have ever issued. ENJOY!"
US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff reportedly informed Alexander's family in advance of Hamas's public statement, reflecting growing coordination between Washington and regional intermediaries.
Read more: Trump, Netanyahu ties strained over disputes on Gaza, Iran: NBC News
Al-Hayya also thanked Qatar and Egypt for their mediation, along with Turkey for its sustained support.
"We thank Qatar and Egypt as well as the continued support from Turkey throughout this critical period," he said.
