Hamas has offered to release American-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander and four other dual nationals as part of negotiations for the second phase of a peace deal. The release is conditional on beginning talks on the ceasefire and lifting the blockade imposed by Israel. The US has prioritized Alexander's release, with special envoy Steve Witkoff and negotiator Adam Boehler meeting with Hamas leaders. Israel has been pressing for the release of half the remaining hostages in exchange for an extension of the first phase of the peace deal.