On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump described the ongoing war in Gaza as "brutal," expressing his hope that the release of Israeli-American hostage Idan Alexander would be the first of the final steps needed to end the conflict.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated:
"I am pleased to announce the return of Idan Alexander, the American citizen held hostage since October 2023, to his family. I extend my deepest thanks to everyone who helped make this monumental moment happen."
Trump added, "This was a goodwill gesture toward the United States and the mediation efforts—Qatar and Egypt—aimed at ending this brutal war and ensuring the return of all living hostages and their remains to their families."
He continued, "I hope this is the first of the final steps needed to end this terrible conflict. I eagerly look forward to the day of celebration."
Hamas and Ceasefire Efforts
On Sunday, Hamas announced that it would release Israeli soldier and U.S. citizen Idan Alexander as part of the steps toward a ceasefire, reopening border crossings, and allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza.
The movement also expressed its readiness to engage in immediate intensive negotiations and committed to serious efforts to reach a final agreement that would include:
- A mutually agreed prisoner exchange,
- Independent professional administration of Gaza, ensuring long-term stability,
- Reconstruction and an end to the blockade.
Israel's Response & U.S. Mediation
Israeli Channel 12 reported that the U.S.-Hamas negotiations regarding Idan Alexander's release went unnoticed in Israel.
Responding to Hamas’ announcement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated that Washington had informed Tel Aviv of Hamas’ intention to free the hostage without any conditions.
Meanwhile, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to facilitating the delivery of food and aid to Palestinians in Gaza. Washington’s envoy to Israel confirmed that a U.S.-backed mechanism to support aid delivery to Gaza would soon be implemented.
However, Israel signaled potential expansion of its ground operations in Gaza if Trump leaves the region after his upcoming visit without achieving concrete progress in negotiations, aiming to increase pressure on Hamas and impose new battlefield conditions.