2025-05-12T18:36:00Z

---

Jerusalem, CNN — Edan Alexander, the final American hostage known to be held in Gaza, has been released by the militant group Hamas, reuniting with his family on Monday after an agonizing 18-month ordeal that began with an attack by the group on October 7, 2023.

Hamas announced the decision to free the 21-year-old Alexander late Sunday night, following several days of negotiations with the United States. Notably, these discussions circumvented Israel and were part of broader efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire and resuming humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Upon his release, Alexander was seen wearing a black Adidas t-shirt and a baseball cap during his handover to the Red Cross. He was then transported to an Israeli military base for a medical evaluation before joyfully reuniting with his family. Footage from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) depicted a heartwarming moment where Alexander spoke to his mother, Yael, over the phone right after his release. “You’re out, my soul, you’re out!” she exclaimed with evident relief and joy. “Everything’s alright, you’re fine, you’re safe, you’re home. Everything is good. You’ve got this. You’re strong. We’re meeting soon,” she reassured him.

The moment of reunion was celebrated by Alexander’s relatives, who gathered in a living room in Tel Aviv and reacted enthusiastically to each update about his release. This significant event transpired just a day before US President Donald Trump was scheduled to embark on a Middle East tour, which would include visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

In a notable shift, the Trump administration had negotiated directly with Hamas to secure Alexander's release, with Trump framing this achievement as a crucial step toward ending the ongoing violence and ensuring the safe return of all living hostages, as well as the remains of those who have died.

Originally from New Jersey, Alexander was serving in the Israeli military near the Gaza border when he was abducted during the October attack. His mother, speaking to CNN back in March, described her son as “such an American kid, full of life, very funny, very friendly,” painting a vivid picture of the young man who had become a focal point of hope for many.

While Alexander's release brings a sigh of relief, it also underscores the stark reality that 58 hostages remain in Gaza, with at least 20 believed to be alive. Tragically, four American citizens are among those confirmed deceased, including husband and wife Gadi Haggai and Judi Weinstein Haggai, as well as soldiers Itay Chen and Omer Neutra.

The Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, expressed that Monday marked a “very emotional moment,” and he heaped praise on Trump for facilitating Alexander’s release, asserting that it was accomplished through a combination of military and diplomatic pressure. “I spoke with President Trump today. He told me, ‘I am committed to Israel. I am committed to continuing to work with you in close cooperation’ — in order to achieve all of our war objectives: releasing all of the hostages, and defeating Hamas,” Netanyahu elaborated.

As news of Alexander’s release spread, a crowd gathered in Tel Aviv’s “Hostage Square” to witness the moment when it became clear that he had been handed over to Israeli forces, with many cheering in celebration.

Alexander’s family viewed the announcement of his impending release on Mother’s Day as “the greatest gift imaginable.” They extended their gratitude to Trump, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, and the entire US administration for their relentless efforts that culminated in this moment.

In the aftermath of his release, Alexander’s mother boarded a flight to Israel on Sunday night, eager to embrace her son after such a long absence. A photograph shared by US Special Envoy for Hostage Response Adam Boehler showed Yael Alexander en route to Israel with the envoy’s team.

Trump took to Truth Social, calling Alexander’s release “monumental news” and framed it as a positive step toward ceasing hostilities, asserting that the negotiations were a gesture of goodwill by Hamas amid the ongoing conflict.

Hamas leader Mahmoud Mardawi confirmed in an interview with Al Aqsa TV that the group had directly negotiated with the US for Alexander’s release. However, these discussions were characterized as indirect, according to Witkoff, who is also scheduled to meet with Netanyahu to discuss the situation further.

While the release of Alexander is a positive development, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains dire. The region stands on the brink of famine as Israel's blockade of humanitarian aid and commercial goods has persisted into its second month, severely depleting essential supplies and skyrocketing the costs of basic goods. Israel has stated that the blockade aims to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages, yet international organizations are calling this approach a violation of international law, and some argue it constitutes a war crime.

Despite Alexander’s release, Netanyahu's office clarified that Israel has not committed to a ceasefire or the release of any Palestinian prisoners; instead, they mentioned only a safe corridor that facilitated Alexander's release.

In the wake of these developments, Trump expressed hope that this positive turn would pave the way to the end of the “brutal conflict.” Nevertheless, Netanyahu has maintained that negotiations would continue “under fire,” emphasizing the complex and ongoing nature of the situation.

Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority, expressed his support for efforts aimed at halting the conflict, offering rare commendation for Trump's role. Abbas stated that he appreciates Trump’s intention to help conclude what has been a vicious two-year conflict.

Throughout this ordeal, Alexander’s parents have been unwavering advocates for his release. Yael previously shared her fears and hopes with CNN, saying, “I’m a mom. I just want to hold him again and to say, ‘Edan, you’re safe, you’re home.’” As this story continues to develop, it remains a poignant reminder of the personal toll of conflict and the desperate hope for peace.