After enduring more than 19 months as a hostage in Gaza, U.S.-Israeli citizen Edan Alexander, 21, has been released by Hamas. The militant group announced their intention to release him on Sunday evening, and the actual transfer occurred on Monday. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that Alexander was transferred to the Red Cross and subsequently to Israeli forces within Gaza.
Hamas stated that Alexander’s release was an unconditional step taken in hopes of fostering a lasting ceasefire in Gaza and facilitating the renewed flow of essential humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory. Alexander, who grew up in New Jersey before moving to Israel, was serving in the Israeli military when he was abducted during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, which initiated the ongoing war in Gaza. He is believed to be the last living U.S. citizen held captive in the region.
President Trump acknowledged the release on his Truth Social platform, calling it “a step taken in good faith” towards ending the conflict and securing the return of all remaining hostages and remains. He credited the efforts of mediators Qatar and Egypt in this development.
However, a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office indicated that Israel had not agreed to any ceasefire or the release of prisoners in exchange for Alexander. They affirmed that negotiations for the release of remaining hostages would continue, even as preparations to intensify military operations proceed.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum welcomed the news of Alexander’s release and announced plans for a march at the U.S. embassy in Israel, advocating for a comprehensive agreement to bring all hostages home. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff traveled to the region ahead of Alexander’s release and was reportedly involved in securing his freedom.
According to a Hamas official, the release followed recent discussions with the U.S. administration, with the group expressing readiness to immediately engage in intensive negotiations for a final agreement. Their conditions include an end to the war, a mutually agreed-upon prisoner exchange, and an independent body to administer the Gaza Strip, ensuring long-term stability, reconstruction, and the lifting of the blockade.
Alexander’s family expressed immense relief following Hamas’s announcement on Sunday. In a statement released that day, they described receiving the news as “the greatest gift imaginable.” Residents of his hometown, Tenafly, New Jersey, reportedly gathered to celebrate his anticipated return.
While Alexander’s release marks a significant development, concerns remain for the estimated 58 other hostages still held in Gaza, with reports suggesting that less than half are believed to be alive. This release comes after a previous agreement for Alexander’s release, along with the bodies of other dual nationals, fell through in March.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with reports of increasing malnutrition and a critical risk of famine due to restrictions on aid entering the territory. Simultaneously, reports emerged of Israeli strikes in Gaza, resulting in casualties, predominantly women and children.
Qatar and Egypt, key mediators in the conflict, jointly welcomed Alexander’s release as an “encouraging step” towards a broader ceasefire in Gaza. President Trump is scheduled to visit the Gulf countries this week, where discussions on the future of Gaza are expected to take place. Notably, his itinerary does not include a stop in Israel.
This direct engagement between the U.S. and Hamas for Alexander’s release represents a notable shift in American policy, which has historically avoided direct negotiations with groups designated as terrorist organizations. The outcome of further negotiations and the overall trajectory of the conflict remain uncertain.
