White House Condemns Hamas Hostage Video

The White House has condemned a video released by Hamas depicting Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander, calling it a 'cruel reminder' of the terror exerted by Hamas. The video shows Alexander pleading with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for intervention to secure his release, as he has been held by Hamas for over 420 days since the October 2023 assault on Israel. This development comes amid ongoing efforts by international leaders to negotiate the release of hostages held in Gaza. Alexander's mother, Yael, expressed hope following assurances from Netanyahu that conditions are ripe for a hostage deal. The video highlights the urgency for a negotiated agreement to release the remaining hostages, with around half of the 101 foreign and Israeli hostages still believed to be alive. Efforts continue from both U.S. and Israeli officials, with talks anticipated in Cairo to explore possible ceasefire agreements.