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Türkiye played a key role in the release of dual U.S.-Israeli citizen and Israeli soldier Edan Alexander, who had been held hostage by Hamas since the Oct. 7 attacks, diplomatic sources confirmed.
The development followed behind-the-scenes diplomacy between Hamas and the U.S. administration, with Türkiye actively facilitating discussions between the two sides. Since the start of Israel's military offensive in Gaza, Türkiye has repeatedly called for a cease-fire and taken the issue to the forefront of international platforms.
According to diplomatic sources, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a series of meetings with Hamas officials in Istanbul, Ankara, and Doha in recent weeks. During those talks, the release of Alexander was specifically addressed. Rather than applying pressure, Turkish officials emphasized that such a move would help build trust between Hamas and Washington and demonstrate goodwill.
Maintaining contacts with both the U.S. and Hamas, Ankara highlighted that the release would serve as a meaningful step toward establishing a long-term cease-fire and enabling humanitarian access to Gaza.
Hamas, in a written statement on social media, acknowledged the recent direct contacts with the U.S. administration and expressed gratitude to the mediating countries—Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye—for their sustained efforts throughout the process.
The release of Alexander is viewed as a preliminary step toward a broader agreement on a cease-fire, humanitarian corridors, and aid entry into Gaza.
In a previously released video by Hamas' military wing, Qassam Brigades, Alexander had addressed U.S. President Donald Trump, saying, "President Trump, I believed you would get me out of here alive. Why did you fall for Netanyahu’s lies?"
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