In a significant development, Edan Alexander, a dual Israeli-U.S. citizen and soldier in the Israel Defense Forces, has returned to Israel after being held captive by Hamas for 584 days. His harrowing ordeal began when he was abducted during a Hamas incursion in October 2023.
Alexander’s release came through delicate negotiations between the United States and Hamas, culminating in his transfer to the Red Cross in the Khan Younis region. The typically propagandistic displays associated with such releases were notably absent.
Upon his arrival in Israel, Alexander was received by IDF soldiers and taken to a dedicated reception area at an IDF base in Re’im. There, he was reunited with his family before being transported to a hospital for evaluation.
The Red Cross described Alexander’s health as “intact,” although Israeli Channel 12 reported his condition as “poor.” An official noted that Alexander was smiling and could walk “with a little help,” despite having endured significant hardship, including violence and starvation, as reported by i24 News.
Present to greet Alexander were White House envoy Steve Witkoff, U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Response Adam Boehler, and Israel’s hostage coordinator Gal Hirsch. Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump had announced Alexander’s anticipated release, coinciding with his departure for a Middle East tour.
Trump revealed, “They thought he was dead just a short while ago,” referring to Hamas’s prior claim of losing contact with his captors during Israeli airstrikes. Alexander is now the sole American citizen held by Hamas, although the remains of four other U.S. citizens are among the 58 hostages still in Gaza.
In a heartwarming gesture, the Alexander family has expressed their intention to travel to Qatar later this week to personally thank President Trump and Qatari officials for their roles in securing Edan’s release, provided his health permits.
U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee expressed relief on social media, stating, “I am relieved that American Edan Alexander finally gets to come home.” He further echoed President Trump’s sentiments for the swift release of all hostages, asserting, “Hamas alone is responsible for the continued death and suffering.”
In Tel Aviv, the news of Alexander’s return was met with celebration by crowds gathered in Hostage Square, eager to witness the unfolding events on large screens. Earlier, protests had taken place, with demonstrators urging for the release of all hostages and criticizing the preferential treatment perceived in Alexander’s case.
Alexander’s journey began in New Jersey, where he grew up before moving to Israel to join the IDF’s Golani Brigade. His release marks a poignant milestone as he is the first male IDF soldier freed by Hamas since the 2023 conflict, while 14 others remain in captivity, including those declared dead.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
