Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old with dual US and Israeli citizenship, has finally been reunited with his family after spending 19 long months as a hostage in Gaza. His release marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, and brings hope to families of other hostages still in captivity.
BREAKING NEWS:
American Edan Alexander meeting his family after 584 days in Hamas captivity in Gaza.
Thank you, President Trump.
(If you don't bawl at this, you're dead inside.) pic.twitter.com/VtqfEqxDMo— Mila Joy (@MilaLovesJoe) May 12, 2025
Who is Edan Alexander?
Edan Alexander grew up in Tenafly, New Jersey, before moving to Israel to serve in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). In his final year of high school, he joined Garin Tzabar, a program that helps young people from around the world prepare to serve in the IDF. After graduating, he was assigned to an infantry unit and stationed near the Gaza border.
How Was He Captured?
On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel. During this assault, Alexander was taken from his military post near the Gaza border. He was one of 251 people taken hostage that day, while over 1,200 others were killed. Alexander’s capture, along with others, sparked the current phase of conflict in Gaza.
The Ordeal of Captivity
For nearly 19 months, Alexander was held by Hamas in Gaza. Reports from previously released hostages suggest that conditions in captivity were harsh, and some even described torture. Throughout his ordeal, his family and supporters in both the US and Israel campaigned tirelessly for his release.
The Release: A Moment of Relief
On May 12, 2025, Alexander was released by Hamas and handed over to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, southern Gaza. This transfer was made possible after Israel temporarily paused its military actions to create a safe corridor for his release. The International Committee of the Red Cross played a key role in facilitating the transfer.
Alexander’s release was the result of direct negotiations between Hamas and the United States, with little direct involvement from Israel. US President Donald Trump, who had made Alexander’s release a priority, expressed his congratulations to the family and called the release a step toward ending the conflict.
Television footage showed a smiling Alexander embracing his parents and siblings at an Israeli military base. He was quickly taken to a hospital for a medical check-up, and his family reported that he was in good health.
Wider Impact and Ongoing Challenges
Alexander is believed to be the last living American citizen held by Hamas in Gaza. His release is seen as a gesture of goodwill by Hamas, possibly to encourage further negotiations for a ceasefire and to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, which has been under a strict blockade for over 70 days.
However, the situation remains difficult. There are still 58 hostages believed to be held in Gaza, with at least 20 thought to be alive. The families of these hostages continue to press for their loved ones’ freedom, urging both Israeli and international negotiators not to give up.
A Family’s Perspective
For the Alexander family, the reunion is a moment of immense joy and relief. In a public statement, they thanked President Trump and called on the Israeli government and negotiators to keep working for the release of all remaining hostages. Celebrations broke out in central Tel Aviv as news of Edan’s return spread.
A Step Toward Peace?
Alexander’s release comes at a critical time, with US President Trump preparing for a visit to the Middle East. Many see this event as a possible turning point that could help restart talks for a broader ceasefire and bring more humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Yet, the conflict continues. Israel has stated that it is not committed to a full ceasefire, but allowed a pause in fighting to enable Alexander’s release. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains severe, with aid organizations warning of widespread hunger and the risk of famine.
Looking Forward
Edan Alexander’s safe return is a rare positive moment in a conflict that has caused much pain on all sides. While his family celebrates, many others continue to wait and hope for similar news. The release highlights both the complexity of the conflict and the power of international negotiation. It also serves as a reminder of the human stories behind the headlines-and the importance of ongoing efforts to bring all hostages home and work toward peace.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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