By Lexx Thornton
On May 12, 2025, Hamas released Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier and the last known living American hostage held in Gaza. Alexander had been captured during Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attacks while serving in the Israeli Defense Forces and endured over 19 months of captivity.
His release was facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross and is seen as a goodwill gesture toward the U.S. ahead of President Trump’s Middle East visit. Following his release, Alexander was handed over to the Israeli military and is currently undergoing medical evaluation in Israel.
His family, gathered in Tel Aviv, celebrated emotionally, while supporters in his hometown of Tenafly, New Jersey, and in Israel also rejoiced. Despite this development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that it did not signify a cease-fire, stating that military operations would intensify as 58 hostages, including around 23 believed to be alive, remain in captivity.
President Trump and New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy expressed relief and joy at Alexander’s return. The release is considered a significant diplomatic achievement for the Trump administration. However, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to intensify, with over 52,800 deaths and more than 119,000 injuries reported, and nearly half a million people facing starvation due to Israel’s ongoing blockade .
