Hamas says Edan Alexander, the last living American hostage in Gaza, will be released as part of efforts to establish a ceasefire, reopen crossings into the territory and resume the delivery of aid. The Hamas statement Sunday night does not say when the release will happen.

The U.S. confirms that Hamas plans to free Edan Alexander, the last living American hostage in Gaza, in hopes of advancing prospects for an enduring ceasefire.

U.S. officials told families of hostages still held in Gaza they see a better chance of a deal for their release after Washington reached an accord with militant group Hamas for an American hostage's freedom that largely bypassed the Israeli government.