Hamas will release Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander from Gaza today, but Israel says there will be no ceasefire, as it prepares to intensify its military campaign in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there will be a temporary pause in fighting to allow Alexander’s safe passage from Gaza, but added that fighting would continue after the pause.
“Israel has not committed to a ceasefire of any kind,” Netanyahu’s office said, noting that it was military pressure that forced Hamas to release the hostage.
“The negotiations will continue under fire, during preparations for an intensification of the fighting.”
Hamas has chosen to release Alexander, the last remaining US citizen in its hands, in an apparent gesture of goodwill towards President Trump.
“Edan Alexander, American hostage thought dead, to be released by Hamas. Great news!” President Trump wrote on Truth Social.
It’s believed the release of Alexander could pave the way for the release of the remaining 59 hostages held in the Gaza Strip since Hamas attacked Israel on 7 October 2023, which triggered the massive ongoing response from Israel.
President Trump is due to visit the Middle East this week; although he will not visit Israel. His envoy Steve Witkoff will instead.
Amid deteriorating relations between Washington and Jerusalem, it’s been rumoured Trump could use his visit to the Middle East to recognize a Palestinian state.
Rumours have been circulating that he will make a big announcement and that it will concern official US recognition of a Palestinian state, which would mark a fundamental realignment of power in the Middle East and of the US’s relationship with Israel.
A diplomatic source is quoted by The Jerusalem Post as saying, “President Donald Trump will issue a declaration regarding the State of Palestine and American recognition of it, and that there will be the establishment of a Palestinian state without the presence of Hamas.”
The source also added, “If an announcement of American recognition of the State of Palestine is made, it will be the most important declaration that will change the balance of power in the Middle East, and more countries will join the Abraham Accords.”
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee was quick to deny the rumours, saying Israel still has no better friend than the US.
Other diplomats have also poured cold water on the suggestion.