A senior Hamas official tells Newsweek that the Palestinian militant group saw "positive" potential in signs of a growing rift between President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, after offering the U.S. leader a political win in the form of an American hostage release ahead of his Middle East trip.

The agreement to release Edan Alexander came after talks between Washington and Hamas that did not include Israel.

Hamas released Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old New Jersey-born IDF soldier who was captured during the October 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel. Alexander was handed over to the Red Cross, which transferred him to the Israeli military.

Israel tried to kill Muhammad Sinwar, a key Hamas leader in Gaza. If confirmed, his death would deprive Hamas of a top commander but the strategic consequences are less certain.

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says there is “no way” Israel will halt its war in Gaza, even if a deal is reached to release more hostages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday warned that Israel would use its "full force" to "complete" the fight against Hamas in Gaza.

Gaza rescuers said at least 29 people were killed in Israeli strikes on Wednesday, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held talks with US envoy Steve Witkoff over the release of hostages.Negotiations for the release of the remaining hostages have been ongoing,

Hamas releases Edan Alexander, the last living American hostage in Gaza, ahead of President Trump’s Middle East trip