Hamas Releases Edan Alexander, Last Living American-Israeli Hostage in Gaza

Summary

In a significant development, Hamas releases Edan Alexander, the last known living American-Israeli hostage held in Gaza. His release, facilitated through the Red Cross, is viewed as a goodwill gesture ahead of President Donald Trump’s regional tour. While celebrations erupted among his family and supporters, Israeli officials maintain that military operations will continue until all hostages are freed.

A Long-Awaited Homecoming

Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old dual citizen from Tenafly, New Jersey, was captured during Hamas’s cross-border attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. His release marks the first since a ceasefire was broken in March 2025. The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed that Alexander was handed over to the Red Cross and is currently undergoing medical evaluations. His family, gathered in Tel Aviv, expressed overwhelming joy upon hearing the news, with his grandmother, Varda Ben Baruch, beaming with pride .CBS News+2Politico+2The Times of Israel+2

The moment was especially poignant for his mother, Yael Alexander, who had been tirelessly campaigning for his release. She expressed immense relief, stating, “I didn’t see Edan for 421 days and to suddenly see him alive, when he cried, I just wanted to hold him” .

Release seen as a goodwill gesture ahead of President Trump’s Middle East visit.

Hamas Releases Edan Alexander, Last Living American-Israeli Hostage in Gaza

Diplomatic Implications

The timing of Hamas releases Edan Alexander is notable, occurring just before President Trump’s scheduled visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. While not stopping in Israel, Trump’s administration has been actively involved in negotiations, with the president himself calling the release “a step taken in good faith toward the United States and the efforts of the mediators — Qatar and Egypt — to put an end to this very brutal war” .

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, emphasized that the release does not signal a ceasefire, stating that military operations will intensify until all hostages are returned. Currently, 58 hostages remain in Gaza, with about 23 believed to be alive .

The Human Toll

Alexander’s captivity was marked by hardship. Reports indicate he endured interrogation, torture, and starvation while held in a Gaza tunnel . His family, especially his parents Yael and Adi, became vocal advocates for his release, participating in rallies and engaging with international leaders. In a poignant moment, a video released by Hamas showed Alexander pleading with both Netanyahu and Trump to negotiate for the freedom of remaining hostages .

The release has reignited discussions about the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza. With over 52,800 Palestinians, mostly civilians, killed since the conflict began, and much of the region reduced to ruins, the need for a lasting resolution is more pressing than ever .Politico

Looking Ahead

While the release of Edan Alexander is a significant development, it underscores the urgency of securing the freedom of the remaining hostages. Families continue to advocate for their loved ones, urging international leaders to intensify efforts. As negotiations are set to resume in Doha, the world watches closely, hoping for a resolution that brings peace and reunites families torn apart by conflict.