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Trump welcomes Edan Alexander’s release as 'Israel' faces discord

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Israeli media
12 May 2025 04:25
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Donald Trump welcomes Hamas's move to release Edan Alexander, a US-Israeli captive, calling it a step toward ending the Gaza war, as "Israel" faces internal criticism.

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United States President Donald Trump departs an event for Military Mothers, in the East Room of the White House, on May 8, 2025, in Washington. (AP)

United States President Donald Trump on Sunday welcomed Hamas' announcement regarding the impending release of US-Israeli captive Edan Alexander, describing it as a "good faith gesture" and a potential step toward ending the ongoing war in Gaza.

"I am grateful to all those involved in making this monumental news happen," Trump wrote on social media. "Hopefully this is the first of those final steps necessary to end this brutal conflict."

Alexander, 21, holds dual American and Israeli citizenship and was serving with the Israeli occupation forces' Golani Brigade when he was captured during the Palestinian Resistance's Operation Al Aqsa Flood on October 7, 2023. The Trump administration has led efforts to secure his release independently, despite previous talks being led by Israeli authorities, causing controversy in "Israel".

Direct US-Hamas talks lead to breakthrough

The anticipated release of Alexander follows direct negotiations between the United States and Hamas, facilitated by mediators from Qatar and Egypt. These discussions aimed to reignite stalled ceasefire talks and enable humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza. US envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed the agreement, stating that Alexander's release is expected within 48 hours. Notably, "Israel" was not informed in advance about these negotiations, leading to further tensions between the US and the Israeli government.

Hamas indicated that Alexander's release is a goodwill gesture toward the US, coinciding with President Trump's upcoming visit to the Middle East. The group expressed readiness to engage in intensive negotiations aimed at ending the war and establishing a civil administration in Gaza.

Israeli opposition lashes out at Netanyahu government

The expected release of Alexander drew reactions across the Israeli political spectrum, with several lawmakers criticizing the government’s role in the process.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid called the development “joyful and emotional,” but warned it must not become an isolated case. “This should lead to a broader deal to bring everyone home,” he said, adding that reports of direct negotiations between Hamas and the United States represent a “disgraceful diplomatic failure” by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

National Unity party chief Benny Gantz said he was heartened by the news but accused the government of inaction. “The heart swells,” he said, “but the stomach turns when seeing a government that lacks initiative and responsibility.”

He stressed that all 59 remaining captives are Israeli citizens and that the duty to bring them back rests with the government.

“This is deeply troubling,” said MK Chili Tropper. “A soldier in uniform returns home thanks to a foreign country, not his own,” Tropper asserted.

MK Ohad Tal added that the situation proves a foreign passport has become a lifeline.

Captives' families demand decisive action

Families of captives leading the Begin protest movement said they were happy about Alexander’s release but alarmed that it took foreign pressure to secure it.

“From a time when Trump’s pressure brought releases, we’ve now moved to releases for Trump,” they said.

They urged the Israeli government to act decisively. “It seems the government has no role or interest in returning its citizens,” they added. “It’s time to end the war and bring everyone home.”