Hamas has announced its decision to release Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier and the last known living American hostage held in Gaza. This move is part of ongoing efforts to facilitate a ceasefire and improve humanitarian conditions in the region.

Alexander was abducted during the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. His release is anticipated within the next 48 hours, as confirmed by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. The decision follows direct talks between Hamas and the United States, aiming to reignite stalled ceasefire discussions and enable the delivery of aid to Gaza.

The release is seen as a goodwill gesture ahead of President Donald Trump's upcoming visit to the Middle East. Hamas's announcement comes amid broader negotiations involving Egypt and Qatar, focusing on a long-term truce and potential prisoner exchanges.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been informed of the development, with expectations that it will facilitate further truce discussions. Previously, Hamas had offered to release Alexander and four bodies in exchange for Israel reaffirming a stalled ceasefire, which Israel declined before resuming military actions.

The conflict, which began after the 2023 Hamas attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and led to 251 hostages, has claimed over 52,800 Palestinian lives. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with severe shortages in food and medicine due to ongoing blockades and hostilities.

Alexander's family has been actively lobbying for his release, and his impending freedom is viewed as a potential breakthrough in the broader efforts to resolve the conflict and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.