American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander freed from Hamas captivity, in IDF custody
3 minute readPublished: Monday, May 12, 2025 at 4:58 pm
American-Israeli Hostage Edan Alexander Freed from Hamas Captivity
In a significant development, American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander has been released from Hamas captivity in Gaza and is now in the custody of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Alexander, who was captured during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, was freed on Monday following successful negotiations between the United States and Hamas.
The International Committee of the Red Cross facilitated the safe transfer of Alexander to Israeli authorities. His mother, Yael, has arrived at a military base near the Gaza border to reunite with her son before he is taken to a hospital in Tel Aviv.
A temporary pause in combat, airstrikes, and aerial reconnaissance was implemented in the area of Gaza where Alexander was released. The 21-year-old, a New Jersey native who moved to Israel at 18 and was serving in the IDF, had spent two birthdays in captivity. He was the last living American citizen believed to be held hostage by Hamas.
Celebrations erupted in Tel Aviv and Tenafly, New Jersey, following the news. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with U.S. officials and spoke with President Donald Trump, thanking him for his assistance in securing Alexander's release. Trump, who had hosted Alexander's parents at the White House, celebrated the news, calling it a step towards ending the conflict. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy also welcomed the release, expressing prayers for Alexander and all remaining hostages.
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed Alexander's release and renewed calls for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian aid. Hamas described the release as a step towards a ceasefire, and U.S. officials indicated the agreement came through direct talks. While the release is seen as a potential goodwill gesture, the U.S. did not secure the release of the remains of four dead American hostages. Alexander's family, through the Hostage Families Forum, emphasized the need to bring home all remaining hostages.
BNN's Perspective: While the release of Edan Alexander is undoubtedly a cause for celebration, it underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. The focus must remain on securing the release of all remaining hostages and finding a path toward a lasting ceasefire that addresses the needs of both Israelis and Palestinians. The international community must continue to pressure all parties to prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians.
Keywords: Edan Alexander, Hamas, hostage, Gaza, Israel, IDF, release, negotiations, ceasefire, October 7 attack, Benjamin Netanyahu, Donald Trump, humanitarian crisis, hostages, Middle East conflict, American-Israeli, Red Cross, United Nations, Phil Murphy.