GAZA, May 13 (NNN-WAFA) – Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, released Israeli-U.S. hostage, Edan Alexander, from the Gaza Strip, yesterday. He had been held hostage in Gaza for more than 19 months,
Brigades spokesperson, Abu Obeida, issued a brief statement, stating that, the decision was made by the leadership, without providing further details regarding the release.
Khalil al-Hayya, a senior Hamas official and head of Hamas negotiating team, said that, they released Alexander from Gaza as part of efforts to secure a ceasefire and reopen border crossings for aid deliveries.
He said that, Hamas had been in contact with the U.S. administration in recent days and had shown “great positivity” towards mediation efforts.
The developments came nearly one month after Hamas said it had lost contact with the group that guarded Alexander, after an Israeli bombardment targeted their location.
Alexander was taken captive on Oct 7, 2023. He is believed to be the last living American hostage held in Gaza.
A temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was reached in Jan, allowing for the release of some hostages and the entry of humanitarian aid, during an initial six-week phase. However, talks broke down after the first phase ended on March 1, halting both the prisoner exchange and aid deliveries.– NNN-WAFA
