Egypt and Qatar Welcome US-Israeli Hostage Release as 'Positive Step'

Egypt and Qatar on Sunday welcomed Hamas's announcement of its intent to release US-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander from Gaza, framing it as a constructive move within ongoing ceasefire negotiations with the United States.

In a joint statement, the two countries—who, alongside the U.S., have been mediating between Hamas and Israel—described the development as “a gesture of goodwill and an encouraging step toward resuming negotiations.” They emphasized the goal of achieving a ceasefire in Gaza, securing the release of prisoners and detainees, and facilitating the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to alleviate the dire conditions in the territory.