Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old American-Israeli hostage, was released from captivity by Hamas in Gaza after ongoing negotiations between the United States and the terrorist organization. This significant development was confirmed by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Monday, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict that escalated on October 7, 2023.
Following his release, Alexander was transferred to Israeli authorities by the International Committee of the Red Cross. He was first taken to Re'im Military Base for a medical assessment before being moved to Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv. Dr. Hagar Mizrahi, head of the General Medical Division at the Israeli Ministry of Health, reported during a press conference that Alexander was alert and speaking after his transfer from the military base.
In a heartfelt moment during his transfer, Alexander was able to speak with his mother, Yael. According to a video released by the Israeli Prime Minister's office, she reassured him, saying, “You are strong, you are protected, you are home. We will meet soon. Love you.” This emotional reunion signifies the relief felt by the Alexander family after a prolonged period of distress.
Edan Alexander, originally from New Jersey, moved to Israel at the age of 18 to serve in the IDF. He was captured during the Hamas attack on October 7, when he was just 19 years old. During his time in captivity, he celebrated two birthdays, making his release even more poignant. Alexander was the last known American citizen believed to be held hostage by Hamas, which is also suspected of holding the remains of four deceased American hostages.
Upon his release, supporters gathered in Tel Aviv and in Tenafly, New Jersey, to celebrate this momentous occasion. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Alexander's release as a “very moving moment.” He thanked former President Donald Trump for his role in facilitating the negotiations, emphasizing the importance of military and political pressure in securing Alexander's freedom.
Trump expressed his joy over the release, stating, “They thought he was dead just a short while ago. His parents are so happy. He's coming home to his parents, which is really great news.” He also noted on social media that Alexander’s release is a crucial step towards ending the ongoing conflict.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy also celebrated Alexander's release, acknowledging the pain and uncertainty the Alexander family endured during his captivity. He expressed hope for the remaining hostages and all innocent families affected by the conflict in Israel and Gaza.
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the news of Alexander's freedom and reiterated the urgent need for a ceasefire. He emphasized that humanitarian aid should be provided to all civilians in need, calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the region.
Hamas announced on Sunday its intention to release Alexander as part of actions aimed at negotiating a ceasefire. This decision followed direct talks between U.S. officials and Hamas. While Alexander's release is seen as a potential goodwill gesture, U.S. officials indicated that not all concessions were secured, particularly concerning the remains of the four deceased American hostages still held in Gaza.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum issued a statement highlighting Alexander's release as a beacon of hope while reminding the public of the ongoing plight of the remaining hostages. They urged Israeli officials to take decisive steps towards negotiating a comprehensive agreement to secure the release of all remaining hostages.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz affirmed Israel's commitment to ensuring the return of all abductees, both living and deceased. Currently, 57 hostages are still believed to be in Gaza, with 20 of them thought to be alive. Alexander was one of the 253 hostages captured during the October 7 attack, which resulted in the death of approximately 1,200 people, according to Israeli sources.
The ongoing conflict has seen a devastating toll, with figures released by the Hamas-run Ministry of Health indicating that Israel's military operations in Gaza have resulted in over 52,000 fatalities and more than 119,000 injuries as of Sunday.
