Tensions escalate as Hamas states it has lost communication with Edan Alexander, the last known surviving American hostage, following Israeli military strikes.
Hamas Claims Loss of Contact with Israeli-American Hostage Edan Alexander
Hamas Claims Loss of Contact with Israeli-American Hostage Edan Alexander
Hamas announces disconnection from the Israeli-American soldier held in Gaza amid ongoing Israeli attacks.
Hamas has reported the loss of contact with fighters holding Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier, after an Israeli airstrike targeted their location in Gaza. Alexander, one of the hostages, appeared in multiple videos prior to the strike, advocating for negotiations for his release. The ongoing conflict has put significant pressure on hostages' families, as the number of remaining captives dwindles amid renewed military actions.
The announcement by Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida did not specify when communication was severed, nor did it provide proof for the claim. Israel maintains that it avoids attacking areas where hostages might be present. Hamas also issued a stark warning to the families of other hostages, indicating they may return "in coffins" if military operations persist.
This situation arises from a failed ceasefire proposal by Israel, aimed at securing the release of hostages, including Alexander. This proposal included the release of half the hostages within the first week, with Alexander's return prioritized as a sign of goodwill. Following prior negotiations earlier this year, a ceasefire led to the release of hostages but subsequent agreements fell through, resulting in a resumption of the Israeli offensive.
Alexander was serving with an elite infantry unit when captured on October 7, 2023, during a major Hamas attack that led to thousands of casualties. His father has publicly questioned the tactics of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in securing safe releases for the hostages. Hamas insists it will negotiate only under conditions that include a complete cessation of hostilities and withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
As the conflict drags on, the death toll continues to rise, with over 51,000 lives lost since the violence erupted in October 2023, including significant casualties resulting from the recent escalation in military actions across Gaza.
The announcement by Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida did not specify when communication was severed, nor did it provide proof for the claim. Israel maintains that it avoids attacking areas where hostages might be present. Hamas also issued a stark warning to the families of other hostages, indicating they may return "in coffins" if military operations persist.
This situation arises from a failed ceasefire proposal by Israel, aimed at securing the release of hostages, including Alexander. This proposal included the release of half the hostages within the first week, with Alexander's return prioritized as a sign of goodwill. Following prior negotiations earlier this year, a ceasefire led to the release of hostages but subsequent agreements fell through, resulting in a resumption of the Israeli offensive.
Alexander was serving with an elite infantry unit when captured on October 7, 2023, during a major Hamas attack that led to thousands of casualties. His father has publicly questioned the tactics of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in securing safe releases for the hostages. Hamas insists it will negotiate only under conditions that include a complete cessation of hostilities and withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
As the conflict drags on, the death toll continues to rise, with over 51,000 lives lost since the violence erupted in October 2023, including significant casualties resulting from the recent escalation in military actions across Gaza.
