Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier, has been freed after spending 584 days in captivity in Gaza. Captured during the October 7, 2023, attacks, Alexander was the last known American being held by Hamas.
His release on May 12 followed prolonged diplomatic efforts involving the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. According to officials, the handover was positioned as a goodwill gesture by Hamas amid broader discussions surrounding regional stability.
Following his release, Alexander was transferred to the Red Cross and then handed over to Israeli forces. He was reunited with his family at a hospital in Tel Aviv, where he is undergoing medical evaluation and receiving care.
In his hometown of Tenafly, New Jersey, residents gathered to celebrate the news, expressing gratitude for his return while remaining mindful of the hostages who remain unaccounted for.
Although this marks a major breakthrough, more than 50 individuals are still believed to be held captive in Gaza. Negotiations continue as global leaders seek to secure the release of the remaining hostages and ease tensions in the region.