The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have reported that the last American hostages in Gaza have been transferred to Israel.
In a video shared on social media platform X, IDF spokesman Lt. Col. Nadabushoshani announced that Edan Alexander “has now crossed into Israeli territory.”
“Edan, a member of the Golani Brigade, was taken from the Kisfim Military Base on October 7th,” Shoshani noted. “While we celebrate Staff Sergeant Edan’s return, it’s important to remember that this war is ongoing.”
On Sunday, former President Trump took to his Truth Social platform to reveal that Hamas had agreed to release Alexander.
“We are happy to announce that Edan Alexander, an American citizen held since October 2023, is coming home,” Trump stated. “We thank everyone involved in bringing this significant event to fruition.”
The president characterized the release as a “positive step” for the U.S. and mediators such as Qatar and Egypt, emphasizing the need to “end this extremely brutal war and ensure the safety of all remaining hostages.”
“This hopefully marks the beginning of the final steps required to conclude this harsh conflict. I am determined to push that day much closer!” Trump added.
Last week, members of the Israeli Cabinet moved forward with plans to maintain control over the Gaza Strip for an undetermined amount of time, dampening hopes for an imminent ceasefire with Hamas. Since the deadly attack on October 7, 2023, Israeli military actions in Gaza have caused severe casualties and extensive destruction to the region’s infrastructure.
