Egypt, Qatar call for continued negotiations after Hamas agrees to release Israeli-American Hostage

CAIRO – 12 May 2025: Egypt and Qatar welcomed on Monday Hamas's announcement of releasing The Israeli- American hostage in Gaza, Edan Alexander.

During a phone call between Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Badr Abdelatty and his Qatari counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, both officials welcomed the announcement, stressing that it is an encouraging sign to return to the negotiating table.

They added that this could be a boost to the mediation efforts and a step toward achieving comprehensive, just, and sustainable peace in the region.

Egypt’s Foreign Minister exchanged views with his Qatari counterpart on the latest developments in the Gaza Strip and the joint efforts of the two countries, along with the United States, to resume the ceasefire, release prisoners and detainees, and ensure the urgent and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

The two officials also discussed the next steps to implement the Arab-Islamic plan for early recovery and reconstruction of Gaza, and preparations for the Cairo International Reconstruction Conference in cooperation with the Palestinian government and the United Nations.

During the call, both sides discussed relations between the two brotherly countries. Minister Abdelatty praised the growing momentum in relations between Cairo and Doha, noting the strong ties and bonds that unite both countries, which serve the common interests of the two brotherly peoples.

On Sunday, Hamas said it was in contact with the U.S. administration over the past few days, whereby Israeli-American soldier Edan Alexander would be released.

In a statement, Hamas said the talks with the U.S. come as part of efforts to achieve a ceasefire, open the crossings, and allow aid to reach Gaza Strip.

The statement added “we affirm our readiness to immediately begin intensive negotiations and make serious efforts to reach a final agreement to stop the war. We are ready for a final agreement to stop the war, agree on prisoner swap and the administration of the Gaza Strip by an independent, professional body."