As Israel awaits the imminent release of hostage Edan Alexander from Hamas captivity after 580 days, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday credited the government’s “vigorous policy” and military pressure for securing the American-Israeli soldier’s freedom without making concessions.
“The expected release of IDF soldier Edan Alexander without anything in return will be possible due to the vigorous policy that we have led with the backing of President Trump, and thanks to the military pressure of IDF soldiers in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu’s office said in a statement. “Israel has not committed to a ceasefire of any kind or the release of terrorists but only to a safe corridor that will allow for the release of Edan.”
Netanyahu also indicated that the IDF would continue operations in Gaza until all the hostages are released.
“We are in the midst of critical days in which Hamas has been presented with a deal that would enable the release of our hostages. The negotiations will continue under fire, during preparations for an intensification of the fighting,” he said.
Alexander, who was abducted on October 7, 2023, while serving in the IDF, is reportedly the last living U.S. citizen in Hamas captivity. His release was confirmed Sunday night by U.S. President Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform.
“I am happy to announce that Edan Alexander, an American citizen who has been held hostage since October 2023, is coming home to his family,” Trump wrote on Sunday. “This was a step taken in good faith towards the United States and the efforts of the mediators — Qatar and Egypt — to put an end to this very brutal war.”
While Israeli officials maintain the release was secured through pressure, Hamas has characterized it as part of broader diplomatic efforts. According to an Associated Press report, Hamas sources indicated the group was urged by international mediators to “give Trump a gift,” and is now “waiting to see what political concessions the U.S. president may offer in return.”
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