Hamas releases American hostage

The Hamas movement has released American-Israeli soldier Idan Alexander, who was held captive in the Gaza Strip for more than 19 months.

NBC News reported that Alexander, 21, believed to be the last living American citizen held captive in Gaza, was handed over to Red Cross officials in the southern city of Khan Younis.

The release process took place on the eve of US President Donald Trump's visit to the Middle East.

Hamas said it was part of "steps being taken to achieve a ceasefire, open crossings and deliver aid" to the Gaza Strip. The Israeli occupation has temporarily suspended military operations, including airstrikes and artillery strikes, in order to provide a safe passage for the hostage to be released.

According to the Zionists, with the release of Idan Alexander, 58 hostages remain in Gaza. Of these, 23 are believed to be alive today.

Idan Alexander's release comes amid heightened diplomatic tensions between the US president and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. NBC News sources say the disagreements are related to approaches to negotiations on Gaza and Iran.