The release of Edan Alexander, the last American soldier held captive in Gaza, has sparked significant discussions regarding the diplomatic dynamics between Israel, Hamas, and the United States. Contrary to expectations, it appears that this release was not brokered through the standard channels of negotiation between Hamas militants and the Israeli government. Instead, surprising revelations indicate that the negotiations took place directly between the White House and Hamas, aided by intermediary nations such as Qatar and Egypt.

This unexpected development raises eyebrows, especially given the current tensions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump. Reports suggest that their relationship has deteriorated to unprecedented lows, particularly following criticisms regarding Israel’s approach to its military operations and hostages taken during the ongoing conflict.

In the wake of Edan's release, statements from Netanyahu's office have been notably defensive, seemingly attempting to claim credit for the outcome. This reaction comes amid mounting backlash against Netanyahu, with critics pointing out that he has had to depend on foreign intervention to secure the release of hostages still held in Gaza.

The atmosphere was charged during a recent courtroom session of Netanyahu's ongoing corruption trial, where a woman confronted him with a poignant question: “Are you ashamed that the president of the United States is saving his citizens while you leave them to die in captivity?” This moment reflects the growing frustration among families of the 250 hostages who were captured during the conflict on October 7.

At Hostages Square in Tel Aviv—a focal point for families demanding action—relatives of captives have been vocal in their criticism of Netanyahu's handling of the situation. They have expressed gratitude towards President Trump for Edan’s release, with Udi Goren, a cousin of a victim from the October attack, urging Trump directly, “The deal that could not be made. Only you can make it happen!” This sentiment underscores the shifting dynamics of public opinion and the increasing desire for U.S. involvement in negotiations.

During a recent press briefing, Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer was evasive when asked whether Edan’s release stemmed from direct U.S. negotiations with Hamas, without Israeli involvement. When pressed about the implications of such negotiations on U.S.-Israel relations, he dismissed the suggestion, asserting that the relationship between Israel and the United States remains rooted in a shared commitment to mutual objectives.

However, sources familiar with the negotiations painted a contrasting picture, suggesting that Hamas may have seen an opportunity in the perceived discord between Trump and Netanyahu. They characterized Edan's release as a “goodwill gesture” aimed at easing tensions with the U.S. and a strategic move in future negotiations regarding a ceasefire.

Underlying these developments is a growing estrangement over issues related to Iran's nuclear ambitions. Allegations have surfaced that Netanyahu and his allies sought to pressure the Trump administration into military action against Iran, a strategy that appears to have backfired. The recent announcement by Trump to cease U.S. military operations against Iranian-backed Houthi forces in Yemen further complicates the situation for Israel, leaving them vulnerable as they continue their military operations.

These developments coincide with Trump's visit to Saudi Arabia, where discussions are underway regarding regional stability and diplomatic relations with Arab nations. Meanwhile, U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff was in Jerusalem, signaling ongoing efforts to find resolutions to the escalating conflict in Gaza. Netanyahu is facing increased pressure to cease military operations, especially following the international outcry in response to his decision to impose a comprehensive blockade on humanitarian aid, which has plunged half a million people in Gaza into a dire humanitarian crisis, as reported by the UN's global hunger monitor.

In a social media post, Trump expressed hope that Edan's release would serve as a precursor to broader peace efforts: “Hopefully, this is the first of those final steps necessary to end this brutal conflict. I look very much forward to that day of celebration!” Meanwhile, Netanyahu's office reiterated that while discussions are set to take place in Doha, the Prime Minister insisted that negotiations would only proceed under military pressure, highlighting the complex interplay of diplomacy and conflict management in this precarious situation.

As the situation unfolds, the next few days are likely to prove crucial in determining the course of future negotiations and the potential for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.