In May, Trump secured the release of Edan Alexander, the last US Israeli citizen held hostage after Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, surprise attack on southern Israel, which killed about 1,200 people, mainly civilians, and started the latest war. Alexander, who grew up in Tenafly, NJ, had been serving in the Israeli military when he was captured.

Trump envoy Steve Witkoff blames Hamas as Gaza ceasefire talks stall yet again, bringing no hope for Palestinian children who are "starving to death."

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) — Jehad Alshrafi is a 23-year-old freelance photojournalist working with The Associated Press since May 2024 in the Gaza Strip. He documents the humanitarian crisis and the impact of the Israel-Hamas war on Gaza.

US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff cut short indirect talks with the militant group in Doha this week, while Benjamin Netanhayu has said Israel will consider "alternative options" to bring home the October 7 hostages.

Over 113 in Gaza have died from famine and malnutrition amid war, siege, and collapsing humanitarian aid routes.

After Israel blames UN for aid bottleneck, spokesperson says approvals haven't been granted to pick up or distribute aid from sites in Strip; also rules out UN cooperation with GHF