The offer to release the American hostage appears to be an effort to pressure Israel into starting discussions over a second phase to the ceasefire in Gaza.

Hamas says it has accepted a proposal from mediators to release a living American Israeli hostage and the bodies of four dual nationals. Israel expresses immediate doubt.

Hamas said on Friday it agreed to release an American-Israeli dual national, believed to be the last living American hostage held in Gaza, after receiving a proposal from mediators to continue negotiations on the second phase of a ceasefire deal.

Douglas Kiker, a former contestant on “American Idol” who was known as the “Singing Garbage Man,” has died at the age of 32, reports say. Kiker’s sister confirmed her brother’s death in a post on social media. A cause of death has not been reported.

Doug Kiker of 'American Idol' fame is dead. The 'Singing Garbage Man' made it to Hollywood, was eliminated early, then came back to sing with Rascal Flatts.

Douglas Kiker, a contestant on “American Idol” Season 18 who memorably moved series judge Katy Perry to tears with his audition performance, has died. He was 32 years old. Kiker’s sisters, Angela Evans and Donna Kiker Carrillos-Ramirez,