‘Welcome Home Edan': Trump Claims Credit After Hamas Releases American-Israeli Hostage
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Edan Alexander, a soldier, was held in Gaza since October 7 attacks launched by Hamas.
Hamas on Monday handed over US-Israeli national Edan Alexander, held hostage since the October 2023 attacks, marking a significant breakthrough just ahead of US President Donald Trump's regional tour starting with Saudi Arabia.
Alexander, a dual national serving in the Israeli military, was released by Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades, following what the group described as 'direct contacts with the US administration" as part of a broader push to secure a ceasefire.
Israel's military confirmed Alexander's return and said he had already spoken to his mother. He is being taken to an initial reception point before being reunited with family.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu credited both Trump's political pressure and Israeli military operations for the breakthrough. He reiterated that Israel remains committed to bringing home all hostages, dead or alive.
Trump, in a post on Truth Social, congratulated Alexander's family and said the release was a result of persistent behind-the-scenes efforts. His administration had intensified contacts with regional players, including Qatar, to press for a deal.
This is the first public sign of direct negotiation between Hamas and the US. The Palestinian faction issued a statement urging Washington to pursue 'serious and responsible dialogue" rather than backing continued Israeli aggression, warning that inaction could endanger remaining hostages.
Netanyahu said a negotiating team would be sent to Qatar on Tuesday but clarified that Israel had not agreed to any ceasefire or prisoner release—only to a humanitarian corridor to facilitate Alexander's exit. Talks, he said, would continue even 'under fire" as Israel readies for a fresh military escalation.
'We affirm that serious and responsible negotiations yield results in the release of prisoners, while the continuation of aggression prolongs their suffering and may kill them," Hamas said in a statement.
'We urge President Trump's administration to continue its efforts to end this brutal war," it added.
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First Published:
May 12, 2025, 23:43 IST
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