Hamas has confirmed that it will release Edan Alexander, a dual American Israeli national and former Israeli soldier captured on 7 October 2023 during the militant group’s assault on southern Israel. The move, described by Hamas as a unilateral gesture to the United States, is expected to take place on Monday.

Alexander’s release, according to Israeli officials, comes without any reciprocal concession—neither in the form of prisoner exchange nor political gain. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office said the act was intended as a sign of goodwill toward the United States and President Donald Trump, who is scheduled to arrive in the region on 12 May.

Steve Witkoff, the US Special Envoy to the Middle East, confirmed he would travel to Israel on Monday in hopes of facilitating Alexander’s safe transfer back to the United States. Behind-the-scenes negotiations between Hamas and US officials, reportedly mediated by Qatar and Egypt, paved the way for the breakthrough.

In a statement, Hamas reiterated its readiness to begin intensive negotiations aimed at ending the conflict and reaching a final agreement on a broader prisoner exchange. “This is a humanitarian gesture, and we remain committed to serious dialogue,” the group said.

Fifty-eight captives are still believed to be held in Gaza. Regional actors Qatar and Egypt praised the development as a positive signal, expressing hope that the gesture would reignite stalled ceasefire talks between Hamas and Israel.

President Trump, speaking from Washington, confirmed Alexander’s impending release and echoed optimism about a potential turning point. “I hope this is the first of the final steps necessary to end this brutal conflict,” he said.

The path to peace in Gaza remains fraught, but the release of Edan Alexander—if carried out as announced—may offer a rare moment of diplomatic reprieve amid the protracted violence. Whether it becomes a pivot towards a broader resolution, or simply a symbolic interlude, remains to be seen.

Al Jazeera.