JERUSALEM – Hamas has officially announced that it will release Israeli soldier Idan Alexander, who also holds U.S. citizenship, following direct negotiations with the Trump administration. The release is set to take place within the next 48 hours, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict.

According to a statement from Hamas, the release of Alexander is part of broader efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza, open crossings for humanitarian aid, and initiate talks for a long-term ceasefire and the rehabilitation of the Gaza Strip. The terror organization emphasized that Israel would not be involved in the negotiations or the release, and no prisoners would be freed in exchange for Alexander.

“The movement confirms its readiness to immediately engage in intensive negotiations and make serious efforts to reach a final agreement for a ceasefire, mutual prisoner exchanges, and the management of the Gaza Strip by an independent and professional entity, ensuring long-term peace and stability,” Hamas said in its statement.

Ynet reports that, Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, who has been facilitating the talks, informed Alexander’s parents of the expected release. Witkoff, along with Alexander’s mother, is en route to Israel ahead of the planned release.

While Israel was not initially involved in the direct talks, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated in a classified security committee meeting that Hamas might release Alexander as a gesture to Trump. Netanyahu confirmed that discussions were taking place over the first stage of the “Witkoff plan,” which aims at a broader agreement.

Meanwhile, the mother of another captive, Inav Tsengoker, expressed outrage at the potential selective release of prisoners. Her son, Matan, remains in captivity alongside Alexander, and she accused Netanyahu of sacrificing her child in favor of a political deal. “If Matan remains alone in the tunnel, Netanyahu decides to let my son die instead of releasing all the hostages. He turns into my personal angel of death,” Tsengoker said in a heartbreaking statement.

The announcement of Alexander’s potential release raises critical questions about Hamas’ broader intentions in the negotiations and the impact of the Trump administration’s involvement in the region.

As reported by VINnews