Hamas: Edan Alexander released to help negotiate end to Gaza war

Hamas announced tonight (Sunday) that it is releasing American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander to jump-start negotiations with Israel - including negotiating an end to the war.

Hamas said today that "we will free Edan Alexander as part of the steps towards a ceasefire, an opening of the crossings, and introducing aid to the Strip." Hamas also stated that it is willing to immediately negotiate an end to the war.

This step, a clear gesture towards President Trump, comes without demanding a clear commitment from Israel to end the war per se.

According to Kann reporter Elior Levi, Hamas is under serious pressure due to the decreasing food supply due to the ending of aid to the Gaza Strip.

They reportedly fear either a popular uprising over the food shortages or an end to Gazan dependence on Hamas if Israel and the United States succeed in establishing an independent aid provision mechanism which bypasses Hamas.