Hamas's armed wing announced the release of US-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander, ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to the region. Direct talks between Hamas and Washington are ongoing to negotiate a ceasefire, even as Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu plans to intensify fighting in Gaza. Negotiations for a comprehensive hostage release deal will continue, and a temporary pause in military operations is expected to facilitate the handover, providing a respite for Gaza residents.

The Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas's armed wing, stated their decision to release Edan Alexander, described as a "Zionist soldier holding American citizenship," via Telegram. Netanyahu clarified that Israel has not committed to a ceasefire or the release of terrorists, only to a safe corridor for Alexander's release. The military is preparing for Alexander's return, with a special unit designated to transfer him to a reception facility near the Gaza border.

Hamas indicated that Alexander's release is part of efforts towards a ceasefire and the reopening of aid crossings. A source close to Hamas told AFP that there would be no public ceremony for the handover. Mediators informed Hamas that Israel would pause military operations, including reconnaissance, drone, and warplane flights, to create a safe corridor for the transfer. This pause offered a temporary relief for Gaza residents weary of the ongoing conflict.

Residents like Somaya Abu Al-Kas expressed relief at the temporary calm, while others like Um Mohammed Zomlot remained cautious, fearing a sudden resumption of shelling after the release. Gaza's civil defence agency reported at least 10 deaths in an Israeli strike on a school housing displaced people.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum called for a gathering in Tel Aviv, emphasizing the need to leave no one behind. Trump hailed Alexander's release as a "good faith gesture," hoping it would lead to ending the conflict. Egypt and Qatar, along with the US, welcomed the development as a step toward resuming negotiations.

Hamas officials reported ongoing talks in Doha with the United States, indicating progress. Of the 251 hostages seized during the October 7, 2023 attack, 58 remain in Gaza, with 34 presumed dead by the Israeli military. Israel ended a two-month ceasefire on March 18, increasing its bombardment of Gaza. Hamas's 2023 attack resulted in 1,218 deaths in Israel, while the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza reported at least 2,749 deaths since Israel resumed its campaign, bringing the overall death toll to 52,862.