Hamas releases last U.S. hostage from Gaza

Hamas on Monday released the last living U.S. hostage, 21-year-old Edan Alexander, from Gaza after holding him since the terrorist organization's attack on Israel in October 2023.

Alexander, an American-Israeli soldier, was released to Red Cross representatives in Gaza's southern city of Khan Younis, NBC News reported. He will be transferred to Israeli special forces inside the Gaza Strip, according to Israel Defense Forces.

His family told the news outlet that President Trump said he wishes to meet with Alexander when he visits Qatar this week depending on whether Alexander would like to and his medical condition.

An Israeli official told Fox News on Monday that Alexander would undergo preliminary medical and psychological evaluation by IDF Medical Corps personnel after he is received by a specialized Israel Defense Forces unit.

Hamas confirmed the release earlier Monday.

“The Al-Qassam Brigades have decided to release the captive Zionist soldier who holds American citizenship,” Hamas spokesperson Abu Obaida said in a statement on Telegram.

Israel paused military operations on Monday ahead of Alexander's release.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said Monday that they had committed to a safe corridor for Alexander's release.

“We are in critical days, during which Hamas has a proposal before it that would allow for the release of our hostages,” according to the statement, adding, “Negotiations will continue under fire and alongside preparations to intensify the fighting.”