President Donald Trump has announced the release of Edan Alexander, 21, who is believed to be the last American detained by Hamas, stating that he will “return to his family.”
In a post on the True Society Expression platform, Trump expressed gratitude to everyone involved in Alexander’s release. He described this event as “a step taken in good faith” by the U.S. and mediators aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
“We are happy to see Edan Alexander, an American who has been held hostage since October 2023, back with his family,” Trump remarked. “I’m thankful to all who made this significant news possible. This step was taken sincerely in the efforts of the U.S. and mediators, Qatar and Egypt, to end this deeply cruel war and secure the release of all living hostages.”
Trump also expressed hope that this release could signify a path toward concluding the ongoing conflict.
This announcement came after Hamas indicated, in a statement released on Sunday evening, that Alexander would be freed.
Khalil al-Hayyah, a senior negotiator for Hamas, noted that the organization is prepared to engage in intensive negotiations shortly to pursue a ceasefire and swap prisoners.
“The movement confirms readiness to initiate serious negotiations immediately, halt the conflict, and exchange prisoners in a mutually agreed manner,” Al Haya stated.
Edan was born in Tel Aviv and has been described by his mother, Yael Alexander, as “a happy young man with a great sense of humor.” He spent his childhood in Tenafly, New Jersey, before joining the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) after high school.
Yael recounted that on October 7, 2023, Edan was stationed at a small base on the Gaza border when Hamas launched an attack. She recalled waking up that morning and immediately texting him, which turned out to be the last communication she received from him.
They had spoken via video chat the night before Simhat Torah, and she remembered him as cute and playful, even joking about bringing him an armored vehicle. After their conversation, she fell asleep, but on waking to sirens that morning, she reached out to Edan. He assured her he was safe, but their communication became sporadic. When the second siren sounded, he promised to get back to her, but the call remained unanswered afterward.
The Alexander family described the news of Edan’s release as “the greatest gift you can imagine,” extending their thanks to Trump and his senior adviser, Steve Witkoff.
In their statement on Mother’s Day, they celebrated Edan’s return after 583 days in captivity, expressing deep gratitude for the efforts made to bring him home. They emphasized the importance of negotiations for the remaining hostages, hoping that Edan’s release would initiate further discussions to secure their freedom and bring closure to this ordeal for all affected families.
