Mon May 12 18:35:45 UTC 2025: ## Israeli-American Soldier Freed from Hamas Custody Amid Ongoing Gaza Assault

**GAZA CITY/JERUSALEM** – Amidst Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza and a 71-day blockade preventing essential aid from entering, Hamas released Israeli-American soldier Edan Alexander on Monday. The release, facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), followed US-Hamas negotiations.

Hamas described the release as a goodwill gesture toward US President Donald Trump, who is currently visiting the Gulf. While Israel allowed safe passage for Alexander’s transfer, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated Israel’s commitment to continuing its military offensive, making no concessions towards a broader ceasefire. This has drawn criticism, with some accusing Netanyahu of prioritizing his political survival over securing the release of other hostages.

The release has sparked mixed reactions in Israel. While many celebrate Alexander’s return, others express frustration at Netanyahu’s refusal to negotiate a ceasefire despite the success achieved through US mediation. Analysts suggest that the US, under President Trump’s leadership, was more effective in securing Alexander’s release than Israel’s own government.

Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate drastically. The UN’s World Food Programme and UNICEF have issued urgent warnings about an impending famine, with 93% of Gaza’s population facing acute food insecurity due to the blockade. Reports of at least 15 deaths in an Israeli strike on a school-turned-shelter highlight the ongoing violence. Despite the dire situation, Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has publicly supported continuing the blockade and the military operation.

While Israel plans to send a delegation to Doha for talks, the government has stressed that negotiations will occur “under fire,” indicating an unwillingness to halt military operations. The continued assault and blockade cast a long shadow over the joy surrounding Alexander’s release, leaving the future of the conflict and the fate of other hostages uncertain.

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