American Hostage Edan Alexander Released by Hamas After 580 Days
After enduring over 580 days in captivity within the Gaza Strip, Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old dual U.S.-Israeli citizen, was released by Hamas on Monday. The news of his liberation brought immense relief and jubilation to his family, friends, and community.
Alexander was received by a specialized unit of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) upon his release. He was then transported to an initial reception facility in Re’im, where he underwent preliminary medical and psychological evaluations conducted by the IDF Medical Corps.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement expressing the profound emotional impact of Alexander’s return. "This is a very emotional moment — Edan Alexander has returned home. We embrace him, and we embrace his family," Netanyahu stated. He attributed Alexander’s release to a combination of military pressure and diplomatic efforts spearheaded by President Trump, calling it "a winning formula."
Hamas, in its own statement, claimed that the Al-Qassam Brigades released Alexander "following communications with the U.S. administration." The organization framed the release as part of ongoing efforts by mediators "to reach a ceasefire, open the border crossings, and allow the entry of aid and relief for our people in the Gaza Strip."
President Donald Trump celebrated Alexander’s release on Truth Social, extending his congratulations to the young man’s "wonderful parents, family, and friends!"
The IDF confirmed that Alexander, accompanied by family members, was transported via Israeli Air Force helicopter to a hospital, where he was reunited with other family members and received further medical treatment. A photograph released by the White House showed Alexander holding a handwritten note that read, "Thank You President Trump!!!"
A particularly poignant moment followed Alexander’s release when his mother, Yael Alexander, spoke with him over the phone. Steve Witkoff, the U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, facilitated the call. Overwhelmed with emotion, Yael exclaimed, "Edan, Edan You’re out? My love, you are safe! That’s it. It’s over now. I’m here waiting for you. They just released a photo of you – you look unbelievable. Wow, you look beautiful. I love you so much. I love you and Im going to see you."
Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the Trump administration’s commitment to securing the release of all Americans detained abroad. "We won’t stop until this conflict is over and all our hostages are home," Rubio affirmed.
In Alexander’s hometown of Tenafly, New Jersey, news of his release sparked widespread celebration. An estimated 3,000 people gathered in downtown Tenafly, with some arriving as early as 5 a.m., according to Sue Gelsey, the interim CEO of the Kaplan JCC on the Palisades. The crowd erupted in applause upon hearing the news.
Prior to Alexander’s release, President Trump, who was scheduled to depart for visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, described the impending news as "great."
Netanyahu met with Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, and U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, prior to the release. Netanyahu then called Trump and thanked him for his assistance in securing Alexander’s freedom.
Alexander’s family awaited him at the Re’im facility, accompanied by their assigned officer from the Missing Persons and Hostages Headquarters. After the initial reunion, Edan and his family were airlifted to Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv for continued care.
As an IDF soldier, Alexander will receive comprehensive support, including medical, psychological, and logistical assistance, facilitated by military professionals.
Hamas initially announced its intention to release Alexander on Sunday.
Alexander’s mother, Yael, had previously expressed the immense emotional toll of her son’s captivity. "Such sadness and agony not knowing what the fate of your son is. I have not been able to sleep. I am stuck in Oct. 7, even though it’s been 580 days. I used to enjoy Mother’s Day so much. We would all go to the city to a special restaurant, and I insisted the kids write me letters on this day. I have not been able to celebrate anything since this nightmare began," she shared.
Raised in Tenafly, Alexander moved to Israel at the age of 18 to volunteer for military service in the IDF’s Golani Brigade. He resided with his grandparents in Tel Aviv and at Kibbutz Hazor, where he was part of a group of lone soldiers.
He was kidnapped on the morning of October 7th, a Saturday when he was not required to be on base. His mother was visiting from abroad, and like many lone soldiers, he had the option to spend the weekend at home. However, he chose to remain on base to support his fellow soldiers.
Ayelet Samerano, the mother of hostage Yonatan Samerano, highlighted the contrast between the joy surrounding Alexander’s release and the ongoing suffering of other hostage families. "Around the world, mothers celebrated with their children. But for me – and the other mothers of the 59 hostages – it was just another day of nightmare. Yes, I am happy for the Alexander family. They will finally have their son Edan back. I thank President Trump and Steve Witkoff for this progress," she said.
Samerano implored President Trump to continue his efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages. "Please dont stop. This is only the first step. Do whatever is necessary to bring every last one home. The other 58 hostages have no time left. They are in hell. The living could be killed any day. The deceased – their bodies could be lost forever. They must all come home," she pleaded.
The release of Edan Alexander marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict and hostage situation, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the continued suffering of those still held captive.
