Hamas announced on Friday its agreement to release an American-Israeli dual national, believed to be the last living American hostage held in Gaza, following a proposal from mediators to resume negotiations on the second phase of a ceasefire deal.
In a statement, Hamas said it responded “positively” to the proposal presented on Thursday and also agreed to release the bodies of four other dual-nationality hostages. No further details were provided, and Israel has yet to comment on the development.
Recent discussions between Hamas leaders and U.S. hostage negotiator Adam Boehler focused on securing the release of Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old from New Jersey who served as a soldier in the Israeli military. Earlier in March, Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s special envoy, emphasized that Alexander’s release was a “top priority.”
The United States, Qatar, and Egypt have been working to mediate between Hamas and Israel to restart negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire agreement. The goal is to secure the release of remaining hostages in Gaza and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to the war-torn region.
Tensions escalated on March 2 when Israel blocked aid trucks from entering Gaza, prompting Hamas to call on Egyptian and Qatari mediators to intervene.
A temporary ceasefire has been in place since January 19 under the first phase of a three-part agreement. During this phase, Hamas released 33 Israeli hostages and five Thai nationals in exchange for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
The second phase of the ceasefire deal involves negotiations for the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. However, Israel insists that Hamas release the remaining hostages before discussions on the second phase can begin.
Hamas’s announcement marks a potential step forward in the ongoing efforts to resolve the conflict and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The release of the American-Israeli hostage and the bodies of other dual-nationality captives could pave the way for further negotiations and the eventual implementation of the ceasefire’s second phase.
As mediators continue their efforts, the international community remains focused on achieving a lasting resolution to the conflict and ensuring the safe return of all hostages.
