Israel: Either Hamas agrees to Witkoff proposal - or it's war

Israel insists that the release of Edan Alexander in the next few days changes nothing in the country's ultimatum to Hamas: Either agree to the Witkoff proposal, or face the full wrath of the IDF.

American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander is reportedly set to be released in the next 48 hours, possibly as soon as tomorrow at noon. The IDF will cease fire and end drone surveillance for a few hours to allow the hostage's return.

Prime Minister Netanyahu's office released this statement following the news of Alexander's release: "The United States informed Israel about Hamas's intention to release the soldier Idan Alexander as a gesture to the Americans, without any compensation or conditions.

"The United States conveyed to Israel that this move is expected to lead to negotiations for the release of hostages under the original Witkoff framework - which Israel has already accepted. Israel is preparing for the possibility that this move will materialize.

"According to Israel's policy, negotiations will take place under fire with a commitment to achieving all the war's objectives."