Wed Feb 26 07:52:14 UTC 2025: ## Hope Fades for Families of Remaining Gaza Hostages as Ceasefire Deadline Looms
**Tel Aviv, Israel –** As the first phase of a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas concludes, the families of dozens of hostages still held in Gaza are facing mounting desperation. Yael Alexander, whose American-Israeli son Edan was taken hostage over 500 days ago, is among those anxiously awaiting news. While the initial release of 33 hostages (mostly women, elderly, and sick individuals) has brought some joy, Edan, a soldier, remains captive, along with 27 other living hostages.
The second phase of the ceasefire, which should see the release of the remaining hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and a broader agreement, has yet to begin. This delay, coupled with Hamas’s recent tactic of forcing hostages Guy Gilboa-Dalal and Evyatar David to witness the release of others, is fueling further anguish among families. Galia David, mother of Evyatar, described the video as cruel, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Ms. Alexander, however, clings to hope, citing assurances from US President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, that Edan’s release is a top priority for the administration. She credits President Trump with applying pressure that led to the initial ceasefire.
The Israeli government, however, faces internal pressure to resume hostilities. Recent delays in the release of Palestinian prisoners due to disagreements over the handover process further complicate matters. The uncertainty surrounding the ceasefire’s future and the lack of progress in negotiations leave families like the Alexanders grappling with a mix of hope, fear, and profound uncertainty. The plea from Ms. Alexander and other families is simple: action, not just more talks.
First Piper 