Israeli-American Hostage Released From Gaza By Hamas
Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander has been released by Hamas to the Red Cross in Gaza today after being held captive in Gaza since 7th October.
Alexander, 21, was serving in an elite infantry unit on the border with Gaza when he was captured during the attacks at the Supernova music festival in Israel that killed 1,200 people. He is now on his way to Israel Defence Forces (IDF).
Hamas said the release is intended to facilitate an aid deal amid an Israeli blockade that has stopped the entrance of all aid for over two months. This has led to mass starvation of the two million population. However, Israel has not committed to a ceasefire and said it would resume recently announced plans to expand its military campaign in the enclave.
Israel said there will be a safe corridor in Gaza for Alexander’s return while a crowd gathered in Tel Aviv to watch a live stream of Alexander’s release.
Meanwhile, moments after the Red Cross confirmed the release, US special envoy Steve Witkoff was captured disembarking a helicopter in Re’im, Israel, where Alexander is expected to receive initial medical care.
The decision to release Alexander followed talks between the United States, Hamas, Egypt and Qatar; these negotiations did not include Israel. It could open the way for the release of the remaining 59 hostages held in Gaza.
Since the start of Israel’s invasion over 52,000 people in Gaza have been killed by the IDF, this number is projected to be a lot higher.
Featured image: Reuters
READ NEXT: Malta Still Refusing To Let Gaza Aid Ship Dock — Cites Technicalities, Rejected Offers
