There will 'never be peace' in Gaza unless this happens, says former US diplomat | LBC

Andrew Marr was joined by Jamie Rubin, a former US diplomat who worked for the Joe Biden administration, to discuss the potential for future peace in Gaza. Edan Alexander, 21, is thought to be the last living Israeli-American held since the October 7th attacks. It is considered a goodwill gesture towards the Trump administration as the US President prepares to visit the Middle East. In a statement, Hamas said: "The Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades released the captured Israeli soldier, Idan Alexander, a US citizen, a short while ago, following contacts with the US administration. "This comes as part of the efforts being made by mediators to achieve a ceasefire, open the crossings, and allow aid and relief to reach our people in the Gaza Strip." The militant group's statement continued: "This step comes after important contacts in which Hamas demonstrated positivity and high flexibility. "We affirm that serious and responsible negotiations achieve results in the release of prisoners. However, continuing the aggression prolongs their suffering and may kill them. Mr Alexander's parents made the journey to Israel, from the US, for the expected release. An IDF statement said: "The returning hostage is currently being accompanied by IDF special forces on his return to Israeli territory, where he will undergo an initial medical assessment and meet with his family. "The commanders and soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces salute and embrace the returning hostage as he makes his way home to the State of Israel.