Israel Ready for Handover of US-Israeli Hostage

Israel is making final preparations for the release of U.S.-Israeli dual citizen Edan Alexander, who has been held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. According to media reports on Monday, the handover is expected to take place around midday (0900 GMT).

The Israeli news outlet ynet quoted an Israeli official confirming that arrangements for Alexander’s reception on Israeli soil have been completed. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) will ensure safe passage from Gaza and are coordinating closely with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which is set to receive Alexander from Hamas.

Following the handover, Red Cross vehicles will transport Alexander to meet with IDF representatives before he is taken to the Reim military base near Gaza, where he will reunite with his family. From there, he is expected to be taken to a hospital for medical evaluation and care.

Alexander, an Israeli soldier, was among approximately 250 individuals abducted during the Hamas-led October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks. Hamas has stated it has been in contact with U.S. officials regarding his release.

For clarity: The United States, the European Union, and several other countries designate Hamas as a terrorist organization.