Bibi denies ceasefire plan in Gaza Strip

Hamas expected to release US hostage

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Israel has not agreed to any ceasefire or release of prisoners with Hamas, Prime Minister Benjamin “Bibi” Netanyahu said yesterday, ahead of the expected release of Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander.

A source with knowledge of the situation said the release of Mr Alexander, the last surviving US hostage held in Gaza, was expected yesterday, a day after Israel was told of Hamas’ decision to do so in a goodwill gesture to US President Donald Trump.

The release, after four-way talks between Hamas, the United States, Egypt and Qatar, could open the way to freeing the rest of the 59 hostages still held in Gaza.

But Mr Netanyahu said Israel had only agreed to allow safe passage for Mr Alexander and its forces would continue recently announced preparations to step up operations there.

“The negotiations will continue under fire, during preparations for an intensification of the fighting,” his office said in a statement, adding that military pressure had forced Hamas to make the release.