Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the war in Gaza will not stop until Hamas is destroyed, following the release of US-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will continue its operation in Gaza with the goal of ensuring Hamas cannot pose a threat again. His remarks followed the release of 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier Edan Alexander, who had been held hostage by Hamas since October 7.

Netanyahu credited the release to a combination of military pressure and support from U.S. President Donald Trump. Hamas, however, claimed the outcome came through diplomatic channels and ongoing communication with U.S. mediators.

Alexander, the last known American hostage alive in Gaza, spoke by phone with Netanyahu and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff after his release. “Weak, but I’m okay,” he said, in a call published by the Prime Minister’s office.

Witkoff and U.S. hostage envoy Adam Boehler met with the families of hostages in Tel Aviv. Witkoff emphasised that securing the release of all remaining hostages remains a priority for the U.S. administration.

While a temporary ceasefire remains a possibility, Netanyahu stated that military operations will continue in parallel with diplomatic efforts. He confirmed that Israel had sent a delegation to Qatar to support ongoing negotiations.

In a separate meeting, the Prime Minister said Israel is exploring options for voluntary relocation of Gaza residents to third countries. He added that an administrative mechanism is being developed to support those who wish to leave, estimating that a significant portion of the population may be open to that option. Neighbouring countries, including Egypt and Jordan, have expressed reservations.

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