On May 12, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel has not agreed to a ceasefire or prisoner exchange with Hamas. Instead, Israel has authorized a safe corridor for the release of Edan Alexander, the last surviving U.S. hostage held in Gaza. This development follows four-way negotiations involving Hamas, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar. While the release is seen as a goodwill gesture toward U.S. President Donald Trump, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel will continue its military operations in Gaza.
Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier, was taken hostage during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. His impending release is viewed as a significant step toward resuming stalled ceasefire talks. President Trump and his envoy, Adam Boehler, welcomed the development, expressing hope that it could ease humanitarian conditions and lead to broader negotiations.
Despite this progress, Netanyahu stated that Israel would proceed with its plans to intensify military operations in Gaza. He reiterated that negotiations would continue alongside active conflict. This stance reflects the Israeli government’s dual objectives: defeating Hamas and securing the release of all hostages.
The announcement comes amid internal pressure from hostage families and some factions advocating for a diplomatic resolution. However, Netanyahu faces strong opposition from hardliners in his cabinet who support continued military action. The Israeli government maintains that its military campaign will continue until all hostages are freed and Gaza is demilitarized.
The talks coincide with President Trump’s forthcoming Gulf visit, which notably excludes Israel. This has raised concerns about the strength of U.S.-Israel relations, particularly after Trump’s decision to halt the U.S. campaign against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, who remain hostile to Israel.
Hamas has expressed willingness to engage in broader negotiations, including prisoner exchanges and ending the war, if Israel fully withdraws from Gaza. However, Israel insists that its military campaign will continue until Hamas is eliminated. The conflict, which reignited following Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, has resulted in over 52,800 Palestinian deaths and 1,200 Israeli deaths, with 251 people taken hostage during the initial attacks.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. The United Nations has warned of impending famine due to the prolonged blockade and conflict. Aid organizations have reported that the flow of humanitarian assistance to Gaza has risen since the ceasefire took effect, but challenges persist. Israel denies Hamas’ claim that it impedes the flow of aid.
International actors continue to urge both parties to return to the negotiating table. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, during a visit to Jerusalem, emphasized that the conflict in Gaza cannot be resolved through military means and called for renewed political negotiations and a ceasefire. He asserted that although disarming Hamas is necessary, a lasting solution requires Gaza’s reconstruction without Hamas and recognition of Gaza as part of Palestinian territory.
As the situation evolves, the release of Edan Alexander may serve as a catalyst for renewed diplomatic efforts. However, the path to a comprehensive ceasefire and lasting peace remains fraught with challenges, requiring sustained commitment from all parties involved.
Source: Reuters
