Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel had not agreed to any ceasefire or prisoner release deal with Hamas, despite the anticipated handover of Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander.
A source familiar with the matter said Alexander, believed to be the last surviving US hostage in Gaza, was expected to be released on Monday. Hamas reportedly informed Israel of its decision to free Alexander as a goodwill gesture toward US President Donald Trump following four-way talks involving Hamas, the US, Egypt, and Qatar.
While the development could pave the way for the release of the remaining 59 hostages still held in Gaza, Netanyahu insisted that Israel’s stance had not changed. “The negotiations will continue under fire, during preparations for an intensification of the fighting,” his office said in a statement, stressing that military pressure had pushed Hamas to act.
Netanyahu confirmed that Israel only agreed to ensure safe passage for Alexander, while Israeli forces would proceed with plans to escalate operations in Gaza.
The unexpected revelation of direct talks between Hamas and the US comes just ahead of President Trump’s upcoming visit to the Gulf, which notably will not include a stop in Israel.
On Sunday, Hamas acknowledged it had engaged in discussions with the US and agreed to Alexander’s release. The announcement was welcomed by key Arab mediators Qatar and Egypt, who described it as a positive step toward restarting ceasefire negotiations in the conflict-ridden territory.
In a statement, Alexander’s family expressed gratitude to Trump and his special envoy Steve Witkoff. “We urge the Israeli government and the negotiating teams: please don’t stop,” they said, hoping the move would lead to the release of other hostages. Only 21 of the remaining captives are currently believed to be alive.
US officials have moved to reassure Israeli leaders amid concerns over a perceived drift between Israel and President Trump’s administration. Those fears intensified after Trump last week announced the end of the US campaign against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, despite their ongoing missile attacks on Israel.
Meanwhile, pressure continues to mount inside Israel. Families of hostages and public advocates have urged the government to strike a deal for the release of those still held in Gaza. However, Netanyahu has faced resistance from hardline cabinet members who oppose halting the war. Last week, the prime minister declared plans to intensify military operations in Gaza, which officials said could be brought fully under Israeli control. The offensive, however, is not expected to begin until after Trump concludes his regional visit.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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