The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has released an Israeli-American soldier, reiterating its readiness to begin Gaza ceasefire talks stalled by Israel.
On Monday, Hamas said it released Edan Alexander “following contacts with the US administration”.
According to the statement, the move comes “as part of the efforts made by mediators to achieve a ceasefire, open crossings, and deliver aid to the Gaza Strip,” it said in a statement.
“This step comes after important communications in which Hamas demonstrated positivity and high flexibility,” the movement said.
Hamas stressed that “serious” talks will lead to the release of Israeli captives, warning that the ongoing Israeli war “will prolong their suffering and may kill them”.
The movement also reiterated its readiness to “immediately” begin talks aimed at reaching a comprehensive agreement of a permanent ceasefire, leading to the withdrawal of Israeli troops, the end of the Israeli siege, the exchange of prisoners, and the reconstruction of Gaza.